The family of Henry and Evelyn Smith don face masks during the
influenza scare, Wingello, Wyoming N.S.W, , 1919 GCL
The Spanish Influenza
(pneumonic influenza)
Epidemic of 1919 and its
effect on
the Central Coast of
New South Wales
By Dr Richard G. Van Wirdum
Gosford City Library gratefully acknowledges Dr.
Richard Van Wirdum‟s kind permission to
web-publish his research.
Spanish Influenza (pneumonic influenza)
Introduction
The disease called Spanish influenza was not because it started in Spain, but because
Spain was not a belligerent country in World War 1 and its press was not prevented
by their government from freely reporting its alarming impact when it struck in 1918.
In fact no one can say for certain where the disease began, or map precisely its route
of dissemination. Some believe that the disease was first seen by the Allied troops in
France (where it was known as “Flanders grippe) or by the British as “purulent
bronchitis” and by the Germans as “Blitz Katarrah”1 and was brought to Australia by
returning troops.
Others speculated that it began in the military cantonments of the Midwest United
States in the spring of 1918, when the Americans were preparing to join the Allies in
Europe The symptoms of the Spanish Flu were far more dramatic than any other
human influenza before or since. The worst symptoms signalling imminent death
was known as heliotrope cyanosis when the lungs were starved of oxygen and the
patient would turn purple, black or blue. Doctors at the time struggled to understand
the cause of this “purple death.”2
There were other influenza pandemics in Sydney‟s history. There was the pandemic
of 1889-92, which affected Sydney in two waves in 1890 and 1891 and was the
beginning of a new chapter in Sydney‟s epidemiological history. It was the first time
Sydney had been caught in a major pandemic of infectious disease. The earlier
influenza pandemics in 1836-8, 1847 and 1850 were relatively minor affairs. Over
the next thirty years Sydney was to be swept up in a number of pandemics leading to
the most destructive epidemic in modern times in 1919 when influenza carried off
1
2
Dobson, M. 2007, Disease, The Extraordinary Stories Behind History’s Deadliest Killer, Querah
Ibid
nearly six thousand (6,000) of Sydney‟s population and affected at least two hundred
and ninety thousand (290,000) others.3
The outbreaks of influenza were common among Sydney‟s working class such as
Redfern, Darlinghurst, Woolloomooloo, Surry Hills, and The Rocks where the
population were living on top of one another. Many people knew that a short hard
life in which persons close to them perished all too soon.4
In the Legislative Council R. D. Meagher asked the Minister for Health, Mr
Fitzgerald, should the Government consider the making of an offer to the Federal
Government of an island or islands in Broken Bay for the purpose of establishing a
quarantine station? Lion Island, he suggested, was suitable as the other islands were
the property of the State. The Minister for Health in reply, said that the Government
had already made its protest against the situation of the quarantine station and the
Federal Government had refused to act on the suggestions. Mr Meagher‟s proposal
was one which would be given the best consideration. There might be a possibility of
securing Crown land or other favourable position, where the population would not be
threatened by an epidemic which might come from overseas. The Government would
offer its best services to the Commonwealth to secure a suitable site in any part of the
State he said.5
In the N.S.W. Government Gazette of December 6, 1918, appeared a proclamation
declaring Pneumonic Influenza to be an infectious disease. The Public Health Act
provided that the head of the family or the nearest relative of the patient, or the person
in charge of the patient, shall as soon as he became aware that a patient was suffering
from an infectious disease, gave notice in writing to the local authority, which was the
Erina Shire Council. The doctor attending had to give notice also. The penalty for
failing to notify was fixed at five pounds (£5)*, which was more than the weekly
average pay.6
3
Curson, P. H., 1985, Times In Crisis, Epidemics in Sydney 1788-1900, Sydney University Press,
Sydney
4
Curson, peter and McCracken, Kevin (n.d.) PLAGUE IN SYDNEY, The anatomy of an Epidemic, New
South Wales University Press, Kensington.
5
Robert James Baker, 1918, November, 28. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
* One pound = two Australian dollars
In referring to influenza epidemic a Sydney correspondent wrote a letter to the
newspaper stating that people should take up smoking the fragrant weed if not already
doing so as a precaution against contracting the dreaded Spanish influenza. Tobacco
he wrote was a powerful disinfectant and germicide. No doubt many of the readers
could recall the bubonic plague outbreak that hit Sydney twenty years earlier. He also
claimed that thousands who took to smoking at the time were immune from the
disease. He wrote that besides helping to prevent contagion, it would prove to be a
harmless, enjoyable and fascinating habit.7
From Monday, January 2, 1919, The N.S.W. Government decided, as part of the
measures necessary in fighting the epidemic of pneumonic influenza, to make the
wearing of masks in the metropolitan area compulsory. It was also decided that
persons who were not wearing masks would not be allowed to enter inoculation
depots. Those who fail to wear masks as from Monday would be subject to a penalty.
According to the Minister of Health, people would have to wear the masks from the
moment they left their homes. He suggested that the masks should also be worn in the
home when circumstances appeared to warrant such a course.8
The Consultative Council of the medical profession appointed at the suggestion of the
N.S.W. Minister of Public Health came to the following decisions in regard to
pneumonic influenza. The measures taken by the quarantine medical authorities had
up to this point been completely successful in preventing the introduction of the
disease. All medical evidence showed that epidemics of the influenza type were
transmitted from one person to another through the medium of the fine spray that was
ejected from the mouth in ordinary speaking as well as coughing and sneezing.9
6
Robert James Baker, 1919, January, 2. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
7
Robert James Baker, 1918, December, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
8
Robert James Baker, 1919, January, 30. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
9
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
There was further evidence that at least four layers of surgical gauze were necessary to
prevent the ejection of microbes from the mouth in this way. Therefore, the Council
found, the wearing of a mask, covered by at least three layers or gauze would
materially reduce the risk of infection. The mask must cover, it was found, both the
nose and mouth and had to be boiled daily. It was believed at the time that if the
influenza epidemic should break through the barriers the mask was to be worn from
the time the person wearing it left home until the person returned. There was evidence
at the time that inoculation, though not of the same value as, or nature of, a
vaccination against smallpox, diminished both the risk of infection as well as the
liability to grave complications if infection should occur. It was believed that
preventive inoculation had to be started then in order to increase the resisting power of
the community.10
The Consultative Council also gave the community the following preventive rules
which were to be observed. Keep away from the cougher, spitter or sneerer who did
not use a mask or handkerchief. Keep out of crowds. Keep in the fresh air and sunlight
as much as possible. Keep out of doors if possible, or in a well-ventilated room. Be
temperate in eating and avoid alcohol. Wash the hands and face immediately upon
reaching the home. Change clothes before mingling with the rest of the family.
Exercise short of fatigue was to be taken regularly and keep the mouth and teeth
clean.11
The curative measures to be taken if the epidemic was to break through quarantine
according to the Council was to go to bed in a room by yourself directly symptoms
were felt like pain in the head or limbs, or a cold and to take a light diet. To stay in bed
until recovery was complete. The sick person was to cough, sneeze or expectorate into
gauze or a piece of clean rag which was to be burnt at once after use. Persons handling
the gauze or rag were to wash their hands after each attention. The patient‟s room was
to be well ventilated and care was to be taken that draughts did not strike the patient.
Visitors were to be kept from the sick room as far as possible. Only one member of the
family was to attend the patient and the attendant was to wear a mask.12
10
Ibid
Ibid
12
Ibid
11
It was believed that the worst of the pneumonic influenza was over by the end of
February, in fact the N.S.W. Minister for Health, Mr Fitzerald was hopeful that the
worst was over, although he trusted that everyone would continue to observe the
precautions to observe which had at that time had been adopted. The fact that the
epidemic was now in its fourth week in this State prompted the comment by the
Minister that the experience of other countries appeared to have been that the disease
declined after a three week course.13
In a reply to a question that the public thought that the disease could be contacted
through an inanimate object, the Director General of Health in the Sydney Morning
Herald again emphasised the fact that no person could be infected by the pneumonic
influenza germ from any inanimate body. He said that the germ could not live for
more than three to five minutes away from its human host had been amply
demonstrated by laboratory tests of the most exhaustive character. He said that many
country residents were suffering the inconvenience rather than have any business
transactions with the metropolis. They were undergoing needles inconvenience
however, as there was no possibility of contacting the disease except through contact
with an infected person.14
In connection with the disease the word “contact” meant a person who had been
residing in the same house with any person suffering from pneumonic influenza, or
who had been in close association with a person so suffering. Any medical practitioner
or officer of the Board of Health may direct contacts to present themselves for
examination. Contacts had to remain in the same house as the patient if the officers so
direct, until such time as they may be discharged. Any person entering a place set
apart for contacts could be detained until discharged. Any person failing to comply
with any direction given by any medical practitioner, or officer of the Board of Health,
or break out or leave any place set apart for contact until discharged would be liable to
a penalty of twenty pounds (£20)*.15
13
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
14
Ibid
* One pound =two Australian dollars
By the end of March it was realised that the disease had not abated as first thought as
the pneumonic influenza epidemic was spreading in city and country areas and was
causing great anxiety. Fourteen deaths were recorded in Sydney on March 26 and
forty-one new cases were reported. From the next day the wearing of masks was
compulsory in trains, trams, motor buses, ferry boat cabins and public lifts. N.S.W.
State Cabinet decided on this action after a long discussion of the recommendations of
the Medical Consultative Council.16
It was also decided that the Royal Easter Show had to be abandoned. Open sports,
including race meetings would not be interfered with. Theatres, picture shows, offices
and shops were subject to special ventilation and disinfection regulations. No person
was allowed to remain in a hotel bar for more than five minutes, (although it was not
known how this was to be policed and if a person could walk outside, turn around and
walk back in for another five minutes.) Church services did not, for the present, be
interfered with.17 However, things were different on the Central Coast as the Gosford
races were held on Tuesday, April 7 and the Hawkesbury Show was held on May 8, 9
and 10.18
The Australian Mutual Provident Society issued an information kit to the public on
how to deal with the outbreak. They stated that to avoid influenza one was to be
inoculated at once and if pneumonic influenza was to break quarantine, the person
should wear a respirator or a veil when in an enclosed space with other people. If the
person was attacked with pneumonic influenza to go to bed directly any symptoms
were felt in a well-lighted, well-ventilated room. A light diet could be taken, such as
milk, beef-tea, (such as Bonox), soup or gruel. If no doctor had prescribed any
medication, to take ammoniated quinine in a half to one teaspoonful dose in plenty of
water every four hours.19
15
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
16
Robert James Baker, 1919, March, 27. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
17
Ibid
18
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
19
Ibid
Another formula was to add one teaspoonful of boric acid or borax, one tablespoonful
of baking soda and one teaspoonful of salt to a large tumbler full of hot water and to
sniff up this solution as hot as can be borne through the nose. Then gargle the throat
with the solution as hot as one can borne. Brush the teeth with the same solution, or
with antiseptic tooth paste. Do all these three times a day. Do not go out of doors
except into direct sunshine.20
For high temperature, first tepid sponge the face and then the body, keeping the body
covered, except the part being sponged. Keep the bed linen as clean as possible, doors
and windows open, but keep the patient out of any draught. In delirious cases use a hot
compress to the feet and a cold compress to the head. One should apply the compress
to the feet first. In cases where bleeding occurs apply a cold compress to the back of
the neck and raise the patient‟s head. For pneumonia, use a hot compress on the back
between the shoulders, which must be kept hot.21
In view of the alarming increase in the number of pneumonic influenza cases the
N.S.W. Cabinet decided to reimpose a number of restrictions that were in force in
February and which was apparent at the time should not have been lifted so soon. The
restrictions were that theatres, music halls and indoor entertainment, race meeting and
so on were to be prohibited and public telephones closed. Masks were to be worn in
train, tram, workroom, shops and auction rooms. Hotel bars were not to be closed for
the present, but customers would not be allowed to remain for a longer period than
five minutes. No restriction was placed on church services, but it was suggested that
congregations be spaced and masked and that services be limited to half an hour. The
preventive rules were the same as previously recorded.22
As a concession to nurses the Railway Department had agreed to issue single tickets at
two-thirds the rate to individual nurses travelling for recuperative purposes after being
engaged in nursing influenza patients. In each instance, a certificate would be required
from the Medical Superintendent or the Matron-in-Charge of the Institution where
20
Ibid
Ibid
22
Ibid
21
such nurses had been employed and travel must be for a distance of twenty-five miles
or over.23 According to a New Zealand nurse, frequent small doses of castor oil and
whiskey were recommended by her as a cure for the flu. But, she also stated that the
whiskey would not do much good unless the castor oil was taken as well.24
By the end of May, the influenza restrictions were lifted once again, but the portion
that compels long distance travellers to go to a doctor for a health certificate to travel
on a train remained. The public noted the local newspaper had paid doctors tens of
thousands of pounds for signing scraps of paper since the advent of the influenza, but
in the words of the Gosford Times “It is splendid to think that the Government, on
advice of the medical profession, have decided to further enrich members of said
medical profession, by allowing them to stick to the last man and the last shilling.”25
As to be expected there were more certain cures for influenza than there were
sufferers. In one case C. H. Tonkin was speaking at a meeting of Merewether residents
saying that he had helped many influenza patients to recover. He said it was an old
cure, all one had to do was to take a couple of onions and put them as poultices on the
feet of the patient. He said that one man had been given up by Dr Dick who said that it
was no use moving him to hospital as he would die on the way. Another doctor said
the same. He said he got to work and the man showed much improvement. He went on
to say how a boy‟s life was given up and he treated the boy with onions and he lived
for five days. If we had got to him earlier he said he might have been able to save him.
Another remedy given was to place the poultice between the shoulders.26
The total deaths from influenza in New South Wales from January 1 to July 10 were
four thousand two hundred and sixty-six (4,266), of which two thousand five hundred
and eighty-nine (2,589) were males and one thousand six hundred and seventy-seven
23
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
24
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
25
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 22. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
26
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
(1677) were females.27 By August 7, there had been over five thousand four hundred
and fifty (5,450) deaths of which over two thousand (2,000) occurred in the month of
July.28
Brisbane Water
In view of the circulated statements that pneumonic influenza cases had been reported
in Gosford and district in April, the Gosford Times had a personal interview with the
Erina Shire Clerk and in reply to the following questions M. C. Ogden gave the
following answers. Was there any pneumonic influenza cases officially reported in the
Shire of Erina? The reply was no, none whatever. What was the penalty for failure to
report a case of an infectious disease? There was a penalty of five pounds (£5)*
affecting medical practitioners attending, the nearest relative in the house to the
patient, or head of the family, or in default of these every person in charge or in
attendance, in default of these the occupier of the house. The rumours that were
circulating regarding local cases of pneumonic influenza are incorrect then? The
answer was yes, you could officially contradict them.29
The Board of Trade unanimously decided that the basic minimum wage to be paid for
adult male labour should not be less than three pounds seventeen shillings and
sixpence (£3/17/6), which converts to seven dollars and seventy-five cents per week.
This decision was arrived at on the recognised standard of the minimum amount
required to keep a man and his wife and two children. The Government proposed to
legislate at the time to permit the increase being allocated amongst married men with
families to support. The increase would not be extended to single men without family
responsibilities, or to married men with no children.30 This meant that the five pounds
(£5)* for not informing the authorities of an infection was nearly a fortnight wages.
27
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
28
Robert James Baker, 1919, August 7,. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
* One pound =two Australian dollars
29
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
30
Robert James Baker, 1919, October, 9. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
The Erina Shire Council made a call for persons willing to assist voluntarily in
nursing, transport, patrol or other duties were invited to forward their names to M. G.
Ogden, Shire Clerk. Public Inoculation Depots were opened at Gosford and Wyong on
April 11.31
By June 19, the Brisbane Water district, in common with other parts of the State, was
according to the Gosford Times “reeking with the “flu and the doctors have been fairly
run off their legs.” However, it is worth noting that in almost every case it turned out
to be the common type of influenza that strikes each year. On Monday, June 15, Dr
Paul stated that he had attended over two hundred patients up to 6 p.m. that day.
Brooklyn
July 10. A man named Fred Thomas died the previous week from pneumonic
influenza. He was a well-known boat and launch proprietor and during World War 1
was the contractor for the Military Patrol at the Hawkesbury Bridge.32
Cooranbong
August 7. Influenza had become a fashionable complaint and called at almost every
house in the district. Only one death had occurred at this point from influenza.33
Dooralong
July 3. Influenza had appeared in the district and Alf Earl and his family were
suffering from it. It was not known if it was the malignant type or not but, its severity
was unmistakeable. It was believed that it would be better if the local school was
closed for a few weeks and Sunday school and Church services should also be
dispensed with for a month or two. The Church and Sunday school according to the
local Gosford Times were not by any means essential to the well-being of the
community, whether the continuance of the public school was or not. Influenza it said
31
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
32
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
33
Robert James Baker, 1919, August 7,. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
was a crowd disease and the precincts of Sunday school, Church and public school
were its happy hunting grounds.34
July 24. The influenza seemed to be dying out in this locality as there had been no
fresh cases for the past week or so. Its vagaries of attack were puzzling. Considering
that it was such a highly contagious disease and its vagaries were shown in a number
of cases here. For instance, in one family it was only the parents who were attacked
while the four children escaped. In another family it was only the mother and her
grown-up son while the younger children were unaffected and in another family it was
only the mother whiles the father and half a dozen children escaped.35
In another family again, most of the members which visited houses where the inmates
were ill, not one was attacked. The Mitchell family were the worst sufferers all being
ill at the same time. Fred Mitchell himself was attacked most severely and indeed laid
for some time almost on the boarder land. The two youngest children developed
pneumonia and were taken to the Wyong hospital. Mr Mitchell was at this time out of
bed and was on the fair road to recovery. A nurse came up from Sydney, but she fell ill
with influenza two or three days after coming and as soon as she was able to leave her
room she returned to Sydney.
Dora Creek
February, it was rumoured that there were two cases of pneumonic influenza, but both
turned out to be enteric fever.36
Durren
July 17. A local resident, A. M. Jones died in the influenza hospital at Wyong the
previous week. The deceased was previously a resident of Rylstone.37
34
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
35
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
36
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
37
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
East Gosford
May 1. It was reported to the Erina Shire Council, that Gottleib Eden had contracted
pneumonic influenza.38
June 12. Two cases of pneumonic influenza were reported to the Erina Shire Office,
the patients being Mrs S. Coulter and Allan McPherson.39
Erina
June 5. Erina was hit hard by influenza and almost every house had a patient.40
June 20. Miss Annie Mildred Dening, aged 33 years, daughter of W. C. Dening and
Mrs Dening of “Sunnyside,” in Erina, died from pneumonic influenza.41
Gosford
June 5. Well known Gosford chemist S. E. Eggins offered the following advice to the
general public to assist them in the prevention of pneumonic influenza and that was to
take every other morning for an adult, ten drops of pure rectified spirits of turps, (not
common turps), in a spoonful of fresh milk. He said that the spirits of turps was a
powerful germ destroyer and was absolutely safe to take and milk was an absorbent
and germs could not thrive or live if turpentine was present in the system.42
He claims that the advice was genuine and had been used by his family and himself for
the past eighteen years as a preventative against all complaints such as epidemics and
had recommended the same to hundreds of others, who could speak in glowing terms
of its efficacy. He also claimed that children could take the formula as follows: One
drop for every two years of age of the child. It was also advisable he said to use a
mouth wash in conjunction by putting five or eight grains of permanganate of potash
38
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
39
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 12. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
40
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
41
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
42
Ibid
to half a pint of water and wash the mouth out and gargle the throat night and morning
while the epidemic was present.43
Another public event that was cancelled was the Gosford Races. The Secretary, H. R.
Evans felt that owing to the outbreak of pneumonic influenza the race meeting dated
for Tuesday, February 11, would not be held.44
April 10. The public were notified that a Public Inoculation Deport was opened at the
Shire Office in Gosford from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, April 11, signed M. C.
Ogden, Shire Clerk, April 10.45
April 24. The depot was to be open the next afternoon, but owing to the small number
of persons presenting themselves this was to be the last public inoculation depot.46
May 1. It was reported to the Erina Shire Council that a man named John Weir had
contracted pneumonic influenza.47
June 19. Over seventy cases of influenza had been reported at the Farm Home for
Boys.48
Owing to the spread of influenza and cases which were in need of assistance, it was
deemed advisable by M. C. Ogden, Shire Clerk, to form committees in the various
towns for the purpose of rendering aid where possible. A call went out for all persons
who were willing to act were kindly requested to communicate with the Shire Office
43
Ibid
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
45
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
46
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
47
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
48
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
44
as early as possible. It was also considered advisable to convene public meetings at
present.49
June 26. Nearly one hundred influenza cases were reported from the Farm Home for
Boys. Four male nurses were sent up from Sydney to care for them.50
July 3. It was reported by the Government Medical Officer, Dr Paul that the epidemic
was on the wane in Gosford. A. I. Chapman of Chapman & Sons had been laid up
with influenza and was able to resume duties that morning. During the epidemic
sixteen members of his staff were affected.51
July 10. It was reported that the influenza epidemic in the Gosford district appeared at
the time to be abating and although there were a number of people suffering from
ordinary influenza, there were not, as far as was known, any cases that were regarded
as serious. Two of Gosford‟s very serious influenza patients Bleney Keys and Bob
Anderson had passed the crisis and were on the way to recovery. Influenza had
steadied down at the Farm Home for Boys. W. Glass, whose life was despaired on
several occasions, was approaching convalescence and Mrs Dermody and Mrs
Holmes were also doing well.52
July 17. One of the local victims of influenza was G. T. Roughley, President of the A.
& H. Association. He had a bad time, but was getting along all right. There were one
hundred and twenty-four (124) boys at the Gosford Farm Home for Boys and ninetyseven (97) of them contracted influenza, both ordinary and pneumonic. A special
nursing team was put on and with Dr Paul as medical officer, every patient pulled
through.53
49
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
50
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
51
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
52
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
53
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Jilliby
July 24. Perhaps the saddest case of all among the influenza victims in this locality
was that of Alex Russell, the only son of Mr and Mrs Russell of Jilliby. Alex was 24
years old and was married on June 28 to Miss Barrett, daughter of Mr and Mrs W.
Barrett. Alex fell ill on the day of his marriage and had to take to his room. Pneumonia
and pleurisy developed and despite all that medical aid and careful nursing could do
Alex succumbed after a fortnight‟s illness and died.54
Kincumber
April 9. The first case of pneumonic influenza in the Erina Shire was officially
reported in the afternoon by Dr Bell, acting locum tenens for Dr Paul, Government
Medical Officer, and the contact being Mrs Joseph Stanton daughter of Mr
Lansdowne.55
April 14. Mrs Stanton died on Tuesday night leaving a husband and young family.56
April 24. It was reported that Mrs Stanton did not die from pneumonic influenza.57
Lisarow
June 1. Two cases of pneumonic influenza were reported from Lisarow.58
July 3. The influenza problem was still in Lisarow, but fortunately most of the cases
had been rather a mild type and all had escape having a relapse. A local resident, Miss
Fenn had recovered from her attack of influenza.59
54
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
55
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
56
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
57
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
58
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
59
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
July 10. It was reported that Ernie Jurd was suffering from influenza.60
July 17. The influenza had again made its appearance. Eric O‟Hara had been down
with it, but was well on the way to recovery. Another small member of the family of
Mrs O‟Hara also had it as well as her eldest daughter.61
Mangrove Mountain
July 10. It was reported that nearly every house had two or more down with ordinary
influenza, which seemed at the time to be more severe than usual.62
July 31. Mr and Mrs T. Atkins also suffered bereavement. Their eldest daughter Mrs
Armitage died of pneumonic influenza leaving an invalid husband and a large
family.63
Merritt‟s Wharf
May 1. It was reported to the Erina Shire Council that F. L. Scanlon had contacted
pneumonic influenza.64
Morisset
May 1. There were no cases of the pneumonic influenza, although there were several
contacts in the early stages of the outbreak.65
Narara
60
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
61
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
62
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
63
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 31. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
64
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
65
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
April 10. The Erina Shire Clerk, M. C. Ogden stated that arrangements were in hand
for equipping the school at Strickland Forest Nursery at Narara in the event of nursing
quarters being required.66 Members of the Red Cross Society with Nurse Wood made
an inspection of the Strickland Forest building on April 9, which was made available
for nursing local cases. The arrangements were considered satisfactory.67
June 26. It was reported that almost one in every half a dozen houses was at the time
victims to ordinary influenza. Although it was reported at the time that several
unfortunate individuals were dying with the real influenza, it was found that there was
only one real case and that was Mr Smith from the Viticultural Nursery.68
Ourimbah
May 8. The public were notified by M. G. Ogden, that a free Inoculation Depot was
opened in the School of Arts at Ourimbah on Tuesday, May 15, from 2.30 p.m. to 4
p.m. for the first inoculations and again on the following Tuesday between the same
hours for the second inoculation only. 69
June 19. Owing to the influenza epidemic the Welcome Home Social as advertised to
take place at Ourimbah on Friday, June 20, had been postponed by C. H. McPherson,
Hon. Secretary of the Welcome Home Committee.70
June 26. Influenza was still raging, although for the most part in a very mild form.
There were also some serious cases, making it necessary for the doctors to be
frequently called out.71
66
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
67
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
68
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
69
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 8. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
70
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
71
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
July 3. Owing to the influenza epidemic the Red Cross Society decided to postpone for
a month the benefit social organised for the widow of the late Private Nancarrow. The
district was gradually emerging from the attack of influenza and the doctors had been
busy. There had been a number of bad cases, but there was only one fatality. That was
Master Jack Dransfield, son of the Headmaster of the State school. Double
pneumonia had set in and in eighteen hours he was dead. He was interred in Point
Clare cemetery.72
July 17. Several additional cases of influenza had been reported in the district, but they
had not been of the virulent type. Mr Luxford and Mrs Luxford were laid up with
influenza. 73
Somersby
June 19. The Welcome Home, presentation and other events, which were to have been
held in the Somersby Hall on Monday night, June 23, had been indefinitely postponed
by W. L. G. Glass, Hon. Secretary, owing to the prevailing influenza epidemic.74
St. Alban‟s
April 17. The Gosford Times correspondent for St. Alban‟s report that a case of
pneumonic influenza was reported there, the patient being a local shopkeeper.75
The Entrance
May 1. Dr Paul reported that four residents at The Entrance were suffering from
pneumonic influenza.76 Another resident, H. Denning had gradually recovered from a
very serious attack of influenza. It was rumoured at the time that the pneumonic
influenza was communicated by a visitor from Sydney.77
72
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
73
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
74
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 19. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
75
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
76
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 1. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
77
Robert James Baker, 1919, May, 21. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Tuggerah
July 17. The death of local resident the previous week of R. Sheldon was reported. He
was a returned soldier, who became a victim to pneumonia.78
Upper Mangrove
July 24. It was reported in Sydney of the death of Miss Watkins of Upper Mangrove.
The deceased was an elderly lady and had recently suffered from a severe attack of
influenza.79
Wagstaffe Point
July 17. A well-known popular resident died the previous week from pneumonia. He
was H. A. Baker, late of Bankstown. He left a widow and three children. Baker was a
most kind-hearted man and many had benefitted by his help at one time or another. He
was one of the most diligent workers in building the local Church hall and it was
proposed to obtain some necessary piece of furniture as a lasting memorial to him. On
Sunday, July 13, a memorial service was held by Rev. E. C. Turner and was attended
by a huge congregation. Friends had draped the reading desk in black, violet and white
and suitable hymns and psalms were sung. At the close of service the organist played
the well-known hymn “Now the Labourer‟s Task is O‟er.” The congregation remained
standing.80
West Gosford
April 17. Stanley Moore, whose brother died in Sydney from the dreaded disease the
previous week, was ill in bed and it was reported as a very suspicious case.81
78
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
79
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
80
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
81
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Wiseman‟s Ferry
June 12. Two cases of pneumonic influenza were reported, including a man named
Joe Laughton, whose condition was causing some anxiety.82
June 26. It was reported that Joe Laughton was getting strong again after his attack of
influenza.83
Woy Woy
One of the results of the influenza scare was the deluge of city visitors to Woy Woy
with hotels and boarding houses being filled up and a vacant cottage was almost
unprocurable. It may have been an ill wind that blew no one any good, but it was
hoped at the time that the dreaded microbe did not find its way there. 84 The outbreak
in the metropolis and the consequent restrictions placed upon the public was
responsible for a rush of tourist to Woy Woy had been extraordinary during FebruaryMarch. Every available cottage had been occupied, in some cases several families
finding shelter under one roof and business people being taxed to their most to supply
the wants and needs of the visitors.85
June 24. One of the latest victims of the influenza was Fred Couche of “Glenrock,”
who had been having a pretty bad time of it, but the latest report said he was doing
well. “Victorious” Jack had also been indisposed of late and his family had been
stricken with the influenza, the last to contract the disease was John.86
June 24. A representative public meeting was held in Piper‟s Hall on Tuesday evening
when steps were taken to form a Citizen‟s Committee to combat the influenza
epidemic. The convenor of the meeting Councillor John Bourke, J. P. directed
82
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 12. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
83
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
84
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 20. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
85
Robert James Baker, 1919, March, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
86
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
attention to the epidemic of influenza, which had broken out in the district and stated
that although so far the disease had not taken a grave turn, it was quite serious enough
to warrant the citizens in organising relief measures and to arrange about retaining the
services of the nurse who had been attending patients around Woy Woy.87
Phil Glenister was voted to the chair and after formal motions constituting the
Committee had been adopted; C. J. Staples was appointed Secretary and W. Brooker
was Hon. Treasurer. The Chairman in calling for suggestions to accomplish the
objectives of the Committee said that they were assembled for one purpose and that
was to alleviate the suffering in the district due to the epidemic. It was an unfortunate
fact that nearly every family around Woy Woy had one or more of its members
stricken with influenza. The Committee it was reported would make arrangements to
obtain subscriptions in order to retain the services of Nurse Morlock for one month at
least, with the option of continuing the engagement for as long as it might be
necessary.88
It was proposed by J. C. O‟Brien that a temporary influenza hospital be organised, as
by this means patients could obtain the best attention. He pointed out that the
conditions in some houses were not such as to allow for proper nursing and treatment.
He considered that by centralising the patients greater efficiency could be obtained.
George Alderton seconded the motion which, however, was lost, as in the opinion of
the meeting suitable accommodation would be difficult to obtain and the staffing of
such a hospital was not possible.89
Staples proposed that the Treasurer be requested to make arrangements for collecting
weekly contributions from residents throughout the district. W. S. E. Hadley, publican
of the Woy Woy Hotel seconded the motion, which was carried. Alderton offered the
use of a horse and trap to drive the nurse wherever required, day or night and the offer
was thankfully accepted. A number of those present promised weekly contributions
ranging from five shillings (5/-), which converts to fifty cents to one pound (£1)* per
87
Ibid
Ibid
89
Ibid
88
week and the Hon. Treasurer undertook to prepare a subscription list and to collect the
weekly contributions from the residents throughout the district.90
Arrangements were made with Nurse Morlock, who was present at the meeting, to
retain her services for attending patients in the district for a period of four weeks and
for further term as might be necessary, at a weekly salary which was agreed upon.
Miss Glenister proposed that a Ladies Sub-committee be formed for the purpose of
making arrangements to provide invalid foods for the sufferers from the epidemic. A
number of ladies volunteered their services to assist in providing and cooking the
necessary foods and a Sub-committee consisting of Mrs Hadley, Mrs Russell and Miss
Glenister, with the power to add to their number, was appointed to organise this
department of relief.91
Staples suggested that a senior management or executive committee be appointed and
it was resolved that Bourke, Hadley, Paul Gilan, H. Frater and J. C. O‟Brien be
members of such committee with the power to add to their number. It was
unanimously resolved that the Secretary be instructed to communicate with the Woy
Woy Branch of the Red Cross Society requesting the Branch to make available any
funds they had in hand for the purpose of providing relief for the sufferers from the
epidemic. The meeting was closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.92
July 3. It was reported that D. K. Stewart, a prominent shopkeeper had been critically
ill with influenza, but he was then on the road to recovery.93 The influenza epidemic
was still claiming additional victims around the area, but fortunately none of the
patients were in grave danger, although some of the cases were still serious. Nurse
Warland, whose services were secured by the Citizens Relief Committee, had been
indefatigable in her efforts to relieve the sufferers and the skilful nursing the patients
had received had contributed greatly to the successful treatment of the disease. A
meeting of the Management Committee was held on Tuesday afternoon when
* One pound=two Australian dollars
90
Ibid
91
Ibid
92
Ibid
93
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
arrangements were made to relieve cases of financial distress due to the epidemic and
to purchase medical stores for the treatment of the patients.94
Contributions towards the funds of the Committee had been freely given on a generous
scale and the Hon. Treasurer reported that the funds had amounted to twelve pounds
(£12)*. It was also mentioned that most of the contributions were at a set rate per week
and was promised while the epidemic lasted. The ladies of Woy Woy had risen to the
occasion in providing invalid foods for the sufferers and many had rendered valuable
service in attending to the household duties of those suffering from influenza.95
Wyee
June 19. There had not been a case of pneumonic influenza reported from this area.96
July 10. Almost every household in this little town had been visited by influenza and
in an occasional home the malignant type had also appeared, necessitating the aid of
the family doctor. It was reported that those who had been seriously indisposed were
now rapidly convalescing beyond all danger and it was earnestly hoped that it would
be soon that the epidemic would end.97
Wyong
February 12. Because of the fear of the pneumonic influenza spreading throughout the
community, a number of public events were cancelled such as the Wyong show. The
committee made up of W. A. Chapman, President, G. L. Tomlinson, Treasurer and C.
N. Walters, Secretary, unanimously decided to abandon the Wyong show for the year.
This decision was arrived at very reluctantly, but the committee felt that in view of the
Sydney and Newcastle visitors being present there might be the danger to the residents
of the district. This meant that a heavy financial loss to the Association responsible for
the show for all the preliminary expenses that incurred. A new refreshment room,
94
Ibid
Ibid
96
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
97
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
95
costing approximately fifty pounds (£50) was almost complete. The year‟s interest on
the overdraft was another fifty pounds (£50), along with other costs such as printing
and others at forty pounds (£40). Secretarial and other expenses brought the total to
approximately one hundred and sixty pounds (£160)*. This loss would have to be met
by individual donations and special efforts.98
The Secretary of the Association was instructed to refund all entry fees received up to
that date and if any member desired a refund of their member‟s fee this was also
returned. A number of the members, however, expressed the desire to allow their
subscriptions and special donations to remain the property of the Association to assist
towards paying some of the unfortunate loss, whilst others intended donating special
funds for the purpose. The committee felt strongly that in view of the unusual
circumstances, members of the Association and the public generally should come to
their help in a substantial way at the earliest opportunity.99
April 10. The public were notified that a Public Inoculation Depot from 3 p.m. to 5
p.m. on Friday, April 11 at the surgery of Dr Tomlinson, signed M. C. Ogden Shire
Clerk, April 10.100
June 5. There was a case of pneumonic influenza reported to the local authorities.101
June 26. Gordon Akhurst, a younger son of Fred Akhurst was seriously ill at his
father‟s residence suffering from pneumonia following a bout of common flu.102
Notwithstanding the vast amount of sickness throughout the district, Wyong was
without a local medical practitioner. Dr Tomlinson and Dr Edwards were both on the
sick list at the time. The already overworked Dr Paul of Gosford was ministering to
* One pound =two Australian dollars
98
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 18. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
99
Ibid
100
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
101
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 5. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
102
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 26. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
the wants of the sufferers. A correspondent of the Gosford Times wrote that some
months ago a public meeting was held at Wyong to take into consideration what
should be done should the influenza make its appearance in the district. Plans were
outlined, beds promised and quite a number of ladies volunteered their services as
nurses. One case had been reported of the real thing that is pneumonic influenza. The
correspondent went on to say that an epidemic was in their midst and whole
households were being struck down. In many instances the sufferers had been left to
themselves to manage as best they could. The question being asked was where were
the volunteer nurses? Are they also sufferers, or do they pass by on the other side?103
July 3. It was reported by the Government Medical Officer; Dr Paul that there were a
large number of local residents who had been laid up with influenza. The Post Office
staff came down with the disease and assistants had to be sent from Gosford and
Sydney. Mrs Rye the proprietor of the Wyong Herald was taken ill with influenza and
there was no issue printed for that week.104
July 10. Last week Fred Akhurst lost two sons to pneumonic influenza. They were
Gordon Akhurst, who was mentioned as being very ill in June 26 was 10 years of age
and Cecil Akhurst 23 years of age. The epidemic had taken a very firm grip on
Wyong and district, but fortunately most of the cases had been of a mild type. Whole
families had been stricken and had it not been for the relief workers, busy with
motorcycles, motor cars and sulkies conveying prepared food three times a day to
scores of homes, many people would have been unable to prepare their own meals and
it would have been a sad plight.105
A noble band of women were cooking day and night in several town centres and the
food thus made ready was quickly carried to the homes. This service was the grandest
work in Wyong according to the local paper. Those who could not attend the town
kitchens were sending big supplies of poultry and other requisites. The school hospital
was also in capable hands and everything possible was being done for the patients.
103
Ibid
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
105
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 10. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
104
The shop hands were gradually returning to work, the Post Office had resumed the
town mail delivery and the saw mill was again at work. The townspeople hoped that
the visitation would quickly pass away. The peace services on Sunday, July 5, were
attended by only small congregations owing to the prevalence of influenza in so many
homes.106
July 17. Both Mr Rye and Mrs Rye of the Wyong Herald were still laid up with
influenza. During Mr Rye‟s illness his father was looking after the business. There
were twenty-seven patients in the influenza hospital at Wyong. Alex Russell (it is not
known if this was the same person as mentioned under Jilliby) a mail contractor
between Wyong and Dooralong died at the Wyong School Hospital on Tuesday
morning, July 15. The deceased had only been married a few weeks.107
July 24. One of Wyong‟s popular auctioneer‟s C. N. Waters was one of the victims of
influenza, but pulled through all right.108
Wyong Creek
June 12. Pneumonic influenza was beginning to pay an unwelcome visit and several
families it was reported were down with it.109
July 3. Many of the local families in the Wyong Creek area were still suffering from
influenza.110
Conclusion
The Director of Federal Quarantine made available the deaths in Australia from
influenza since the beginning of the outbreak to December 7. The total number of
deaths was 10,531 made up as follows: New South Wales 5,870, Victoria 3,347, South
Australia 504, Queensland 286, Western Australia 328, Tasmania 186. On a
106
Ibid
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 17. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
108
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
109
Robert James Baker, 1919, June, 12. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
110
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 3. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
107
population basis the New South Wales death were thirty per cent greater than in
Victoria.111
As shown, the devastation caused by the pneumonic influenza, known as the Spanish
„Flu was not as great as generally believed. On The Central Coast the local paper
noted twelve deaths from influenza. In the Brisbane Water district, in common with
other parts of the State was, according to the Gosford Times “reeking with the “flu and
the doctors have been fairly run off their legs.” However, it is worth noting that in
almost every case it turned out to be the common type of influenza that strikes each
year. Some medical suppliers of over the counter medications took advantage of the
prevailing influenza and advertised their product to cure the dreaded disease (see
Appendix Two).
Dr Dick, the Chief Medical Officer of Newcastle submitted his report upon the late
pneumonic influenza visitation. He stated that the statistics did not show conclusively
what the effect of inoculation was. Regarding the restrictions imposed, he said that one
serious effect was that the public was led to regard the disease as a very fearsome
thing and the application of regulations dealing with contacts strengthened their belief
in this, with the result that as soon as a number of people fell ill they were in very
many instances left to do the best they could for themselves because of the fear which
the neighbours had of themselves contracting the disease. In some towns yellow flags
and other symbols were displayed to warn the public from entering the invaded
premises and this was cruelly instated on in some districts where, unfortunately, the
local authorities had made no efforts to provide proper help from the stricken
inhabitants.112
111
Robert James Baker, 1919, December, 4. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
112
Robert James Baker, 1919, October, 30. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Appendix One
Death Lists
Brooklyn
Fred Thomas
July 10
Cooranbong
Unknown
August 7
Durren
A. M. Jones
July 17
Erina
Miss Annie Mildred Dening
June 20
Jilliby
Alex Russell
July 24
Mangrove Mountain
Mrs Armitage
July 31
Ourimbah
Master jack Dransfield
July 3
Tuggerah
R. Sheldon
July 17
Upper Mangrove
Miss Watkins
July 24
Wagstaffe Point
H. A. Baker
July 17
Wyong
Gordon Akhurst
July 10
Wyong
Cecil Akhurst
July 10
Appendix Two
INFLUENZA
DANGEROUS COMPLICATIONS
Files from England speak of industries “half-handed,”
schools shut shops likewise, temporary hospitals and
doctors “worked to death.” Influenza has been raging,
claiming countless victims. The thing to dread most with
influenza is lowered vitality which prepares the way for
those complications that result in chronic bronchitis and
consumption. Beware!- pain always lowers vitality.
Wawn‟s Wonder-Wool stops the pain the moment it is
applied. A medicated cotton-wool, every fibre is
thoroughly impregnated with specially selected painrelieving essences the soothing virtues and healing
properties of which are felt immediately. For such reason
it is known everywhere as the “Magical Wrap.” It never
fails. It cannot fail. It stops pain in influenza, bronchitis,
quinsy, ordinary coughs and colds, in headaches,
backaches, neuralgia and toothache, in rheumatism,
lumbago, sciatica, strains, sprains, stiff joints and cramp.
Keep it in the house; it is essential. Wawn‟s Wonder-Wool
is on Sale by all Chemists and Stores, price 2/6* a packet;
or direct from V. A. Wawn, Manufacturing Chemists 186
George Street, Sydney.113
* 2/6, two shillings and sixpence, which converts to twenty-five cents
113
Robert James Baker, 1918, November, 28. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Spanish Influenza
Is now universally prevalent abroad, and an epidemic is
feared in Australia. But Influenza of every variety can be
combatted and cured by taking
COMPTON‟S NONPARIEL HERBAL
POWDERS
Prepared from the Purest herbs, finely powered and for
infusion.
Especially the Influenza No. 1 Powder
For COLDS, Febrile Attacks, Hoarseness, Sore Throats,
Cough, Influenza, Cold Hands, Colic, Giddiness,
Headaches, &c, &c.
Price, 1s* per packet, post is 2d.*
Make and take hot with Milk and Sugar, as you would
Cocoa, or Coffee, palatable and a quick cure.
From J. H. COMPTON
Herbal Specialist,
“Nonpariel” Medicine Depot,
8 Albion St, Paddington, Sydney
Order Early,
Big Demand Expected.114
* 1s on shilling, which converts to ten cents. 2d twopence, which converts to two cents
Pneumonic-Influenza
Inoculation Depots
DEPOTS will be opened as under for Inoculation purposes:GOSFORD –Shire Office, Friday, 31st January, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.,
1st Inoculation Wednesday, 5th February, 1919, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. second
Inoculation.
WOY WOY – Piper‟s Hall Monday, 3rd February, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., 1st
Inoculation. Monday 10th February, 1919, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., 2nd
Inoculation.
The above arrangement is contingent upon the necessary supply of
vaccine being available.
Unless the demand for Inoculation warrants, further Depots will NOT be
opened.
M. C. OGDEN,
Shire Clerk
Shire Office, Gosford
Jan. 30, 1919.
114
Robert James Baker, 1918, November, 28. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Don‟t be Scared.
Wear a Mask!
We can do the Regulation at 7½d.
GET INOCULATED
The Doctor will do that.
KEEP CLEAN!
We can do plenty of Good
Cleansing Soaps & Disinfectants
And if you require Extra Water we
Can Do TANKS,
200 gallon, 400 gallon and 1000 gallon
CHAPMAN & SONS
(The Store that‟s Making Gosford Famous)
Gosford & Wyong.115
Do What the Health Authorities TELL YOU TO KEEP
INFLUENZA
Out of Your Home
Dr. PATON (Director-General of
The
formula
of
PRUNO
Public Health) issued instructions
ANTISEPTIC
to his own staff recently to use
PASTILLES
Solutions of Thymol in various
Menthol, Eucalyptol, Oil of
ways.
Pine, Formalin and Liquorice
THROAT
is
Thymol,
Dr COMPSTON (Federal Director
of Quarantine advise inhalation of
Menthol Eucalyptol and Terehene
PRUNO Antiseptic Throat Pastilles
Contain all the Special Preventatives recommended by our Health
Authorities combined with such perfect germicide as Formalin. They
therefore, are the best protection you can use against Pneumonic
115
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Influenza. You cannot afford to be without them. They are too valuable
just now. Only cost 1s 3d
IF NOT OBTAINABLE LOCALLY, WRITE ENCLOSING 1s 3d* TO
The Pruno & Herbos Pills Manufacturing Co.
509 Hunter Street, Newcastle; or 42 Elizabeth Street, Sydney116
In Every case of Spanish Influenza Heart Failure is the Great
Danger and can only be obviated by
Taking Timely Measures
For instance, a course of
Compton‟s Herbal Nerve Tonic
Taken now means strengthening the nerves, aiding the digestion,
clearing the lungs, and thus, in advance, robbing Spanish
Influenza of half its terrors should you be unfortunate to
encounter infection.
NOTA BENE:- Once the ravages of the complaint has started
Nature must fight its battle unaided and physic laid aside,
because of this fear of heart and lung complication. Aid Nature
while you can by taking Compton‟s “Nonpariel” Herbal Nerve
Tonic.
* One shilling and threepence (1/3), which converts to thirteen cents
116
Robert James Baker, 1919, February, 29. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered
Machine Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Small Size 1-6*,
Large Size 3-6*
J. H. Compton
Herbal Specialist
Local Depot: Dora Creek.117
The following recommendations for pneumonic influenza were recommended by the
Consultative Council
MIXTURE
Liq. Amm. Acet
1 or 2 drms.
Spts Aether Nitrosi
½ drm.
Pot. Citrati
15 grs.
Sacch. Ust.
qs
Sig.
Half ounce every three or four hours for adults
One drachm for a child under six years
Two drachms for a child six to twelve years.
SOLID INHALANT or Antiseptic Nasal Cream
1. Menthal
5 grs.
2. Phenol
2½ grs.
3. Eucalyptol
10 min.
4. White Vaseline
ad.1oz.
Sig.
* 1-6 was one shillings and sixpence (1/6), which converts to sixteen cents, 3-6 was three shillings and
sixpence (3/6), which converts to thirty-five cents
117
Robert James Baker, 1919, March, 6. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Apply a little to the interior of each nostril frequently.118
Eat, Drink,
And be Merry
For to-morrow you may have the „Flu. The „Flu Germ doesn‟t like longfaced folk and goes for them right away. It hasn‟t told us so, but we know
that the happy and fat folk dodge a lot of trouble in this world
Dodge Trouble, too, and deal with US.
We go in a straight line every time. Best Quality, Best Brands,
Bedrock Prices,
Punctual Service
(we deliver anywhere in Woy
Woy and District)
We are the Universal
Providers of Woy Woy
118
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 30. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
Where‟er you walk, there‟s none like us for giving you what you want.
Lay in Good Stocks for Easter
Stewart & Sons,
Woy Woy
„Phone 4 Woy Woy
The Home Quality & Value119
A WARNING
Danger of Relapse from Influenza
The N.S.W. Minister for Public Health in view of the serious and often
fatal results which follow unless adequate precautions are being taken
against a relapse of the prevailing epidemic has issued a warning to
persons suffering from influenza.
He points out the grave risks incurred in leaving bed too soon, owing to
the possibility of contracting chills and so on and also warned against the
danger of heart seizure owing to the weakened state of that organ
following upon an attack.
To further guard against a sudden relapse and the possibility of Heart
Seizure, Wawn‟s Wonder-Wool should be sewn inside the patient‟s
singlet, and worn as a jacket for at least fourteen days after leaving bed.
The natural warmth of this “Magic Wrap,” reinforced with the stimulating
properties of the medicaments with which it is impregnated-generates
119
Robert James Baker, 1919, April, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.
inner heat-promotes circulation-stimulates the heart‟s action-dispels blood
congestion and inflammation, and protect the wearer against the
possibility of contracting a chill, and its attendant results-and at the same
time stimulates and strengthens the heart Wawn‟s Wonder Wool can
be obtained at any Chemist and Store, 2/6* packet-10.120
*2/6 was two shillings and sixpence, which converts to twenty-five cents
120
Robert James Baker, 1919, July, 24. Printed and published by proprietor at his Registered Machine
Printing Office, Mann Street, Gosford in the State Of N.S.W.