The 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic, the Origins of the H1N1-virus Strain, a Glance in History

Abstract

It was the year 1918, when a new flu pandemic launched worldwide. Our study purports to depict the general icon of the 1918 pandemic epoch, for the readers to shape an overview of the events of the era. We have used some of the most important manuscripts concerning the pandemic to compose a historical note on the outbreak that almost annihilated the world. The name “Spanish Flu”, was defined wrongfully due to the scientific observation and research made in Spain, while the first appearance of the virus had been made in USA. The outbreak was devastating, causing millions to die, more than the First World War casualties. During new experiments upon the old virus strain, it was proved that the 1918 pandemic was caused by an influenza A - subtype H1N1 progenitor strain. Our mini review, enlightens some aspects of virus blast, in an effort for the readers to luxuriate in the tale, myths, and the true story of the 1918 pandemic.