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Another, is a roseolous or spotty rash about the elbows,
forearms, and fingers, knees, legs and feet, and even on the
trunk. This is probably unimportant. Further, it may be
remarked that although the uncomplicated disorder usually
does not last more than two or three days, occasionally a
relapse or recurrence of the malady takes place at the end
of a week or so. It is possible that in some of the complicated
cases this tendency to relapse may be largely instrumental
in prolonging the patient's illness.
It will be observed from the above account that
influenza is by no means necessarily attended with the
catarrhal symptoms which the general public have been
taught to regard as its distinctive signs; and that in a very
large proportion of cases no catarrhal condition whatever
becomes developed at any time.
Influenza, for the most part, is not a dangerous malady ;
it is apt to be dangerous, however, to those already affected
with disease, and to persons of advanced age or feeble constitution.
Its own dangers are connected with its complications,
and especially with its pulmonary complications.
And I should recommend all who are attacked with it, and
who feel ill, to remain at home and nurse themselves until
they are well. The disease is not one which can be dealt
with by Act of Parliament, or by Sanitary Authorities.