The evolution of pandemic influenza: evidence from India, 1918-19.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The 1918-19 'Spanish' Influenza was the most devastating pandemic in recent history, with estimates of global mortality ranging from 20 to 50 million. The focal point of the pandemic was India, with an estimated death toll of between 10 and 20 million. We will characterize the pattern of spread, mortality, and evolution of the 1918 influenza across India using spatial or temporal data.

Methods

This study estimates weekly deaths in 213 districts from nine provinces in India. We compute statistical measures of the severity, speed, and duration of the virulent autumn wave of the disease as it evolved and diffused throughout India. These estimates create a clear picture of the spread of the pandemic across India.

Results

Analysis of the timing and mortality pat

SUBMITTER: Chandra S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4262128 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature