On This Day, 12 December 1918

Birmingham Mail 

Thursday 12 December 1918

INFLUENZA EPIDEMIC.

DECREASE IN BIRMINGHAM CASES MAINTAINED.

The improvement reflected in the returns of the Medical Officer of Health on Monday is maintained, as reports show that fewer cases in influenza are occurring in Birmingham than a fortnight ego. Hopes are thus entertained that the disease, though still very prevalent in the city, has seen its worst phase and that it will steadily decrease. The Order prohibiting the admission of children of school age to the cinemas is still in force, and will remain so until the position warrants its removal.

Although arrangements have been made by Dr. Robertson for the admission of patients suffering from influenza two of the hospitals in the city, the applications for admission have not been large.

Regarding complaints made by doctors that persons, even with medical certificates, were experiencing great difficulty in obtaining brandy for patients, it may be mentioned that some of the retailers in the city have been doing their best to supply the demand. Notices have been prominently displayed outside several establishments stating that persons with doctors’ certificates would be supplied with brandy at specified times. No notice has, however, yet been received by the authorities from the Ministry of Food stating that sanction has been given for the release of more spirit for medicinal purposes.