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24
Standard deviation of attacks.
Influenza (age of deaths) 58.50 years 17.0 years 16.0 years
Measles (age of attack) 4.42 years 2.68 years 2.11 years
Influenza (age of attack) 7.88 years 9.06 years 9.50 years
Standard deviation of temporal wave based on deaths.
Influenza — 1.236 mos. 1.945 mos.
Measles —
Standard deviation of epidemic wave, based on attacks.
Measles 1.97 mos. 1.40 mos. 1.2 mos.
From these facts it would seem that a rough numerical relationship
exists, the ratio between the incubation periods being in
some way associated with the periodicity. Thus, Measles is
periodic over a 2-3 year period, whilst Influenza occurs roughly
about every 15-25 years. The point is of interest, but the information
available is not sufficient to make any definite statement.
As a general conclusion it would seem as if any attempt to
hinder the spread of infection is hopeless, and
that it is even doubtful whether the development of the
the epidemic wave can be delayed. Whatever action is taken, it
should be concentrated on the relief of those attacked. The
immunisation of the individual through his own powers is the
natural manner by which the parasite is slowly overcome. It is
common sense to expect that if the disease is ever eradicated from
our midst it will be on these lines.
In the meantime, those objects which aim at the maintenance
of health during non-epidemic periods are more likely to curtail
the death-rate than improvisations when the disease is in our
midst.
The relationship between the ordinary common cold passing
on to the condition roughly classed as an influenzal cold and
endemic-influenza, as regards the symptoms produced and the