Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1919-09-26
PREPARING TO HEAD
OFF THE INFLUENZA


as to the probable return of the Flu
the coming fall and winter" was the
question given Dr. L. D. Bristol, the
State commissioner of health, and the
doctors answer was quickly given.
i hope it will not return. i think
there is a possibility. particularly its
appearance in those sections that es-
capped it last year and the State De-
partment of Health is already taking
precautionary measures so as to be
able TO deal with il promptly and
energetically, if it does appear.
4 have written Surgeon General
Blue. head Of the United States Pub
lie Health Service, TO ascertain to
what extent the bureau will assist
US, If the occasion demands. because
should We have anything like a re-
currence of last years epidemic il
will cost lot Of money to handle the
situation.
The department is taking every
possible step TO be in readiness for
Whatever may happen. We are get
ting list of volunteer physicians.
who will be ready to go outside their
own communities. and we want to be
able to make them some definite
promise as TO recompense as to sal
airy and expenses, therefore l have
written the United States authorities
TO see what they will do. Then.
knowing just what we can offer. we
VIII have definite organization
ready to step into the emergency at
any time and in any place.
1t will be remembered that one of
the most serious handicaps during
last years epidemic was the lack of
doctors and trained nurses. We hope
10 be in on the ground floor in the
supply OF these absolutely essentials
IN nshting such foe as the Flu and
have enough right where we can call
them at a moments notice. To Sc
cure this army of trained fighters |
nave written every DOCTOR in the
state 10 the following effect:
sJust a year ago the epidemic of In
nuenza started in Maine. and YOU know
only too we'll what suffering and sad.
ness 1t brought to most Communities
of the State.
The great difficulty with which we
had TO contend was the lack of physi-
the sick. Ao'
Although l do no, anticipate rem
widespread or severe a form. the State
Department OF Health desires to be
prepared for any emergency and we arr
'nas .Ws our our, plans i;n,; accordingly.
we need your help. The practicing
posts Of public health. What you do.
or neglect to d. in promptly reportin9
cases Of influenza, and other con,mu us
neglect to do. in controlling your cases
through proper treatment and isolafjon
VIII largely determine whether or not
me disease again gets a death-grip on
AS citizen of Maine and as a mem.
per OF the noble profession of medicine.
l hope you will consider il your patri.
etc duty and opportunity to mi out
It to me at once: and also to render ali
the assistance and cooperation possible
N preventing the recurrence of in
nasnza IN epidemic form:
The QUESTIONABLE referred to asks
the following questions:
~ Hase you at present any cases OF
the influenza? (a) The number: (b)
mild or severe; (c) any recent fatal
will you promptly report all cases
to your local board OF health?
Will you volunteer your services
Tor emergency influenza work outside
ii Eeeueu, pro-
paid?'
And" said the doctor. ct apprehend
tn snat every doctor in Maine will prompt
such an organized force we can do
much to handle the Flu should it come.
IN better shape than last year when
we were so handicapped. We will con-
ohat the people themselves will take
every precaution against the slightest