Spanish Flu

The Spanish Flu was a devastating influenza pandemic that occurred between 1918 and 1919, infecting about one-third of the world's population. It originated during World War I and spread quickly due to troop movements and crowded conditions. Unlike typical flu viruses, it disproportionately affected young, healthy individuals. The pandemic caused an estimated 50 million deaths worldwide. Despite its name, it did not originate in Spain; the term arose because Spain, being neutral during the war, reported cases more openly. The Spanish Flu highlighted the importance of public health measures and virus research, influencing future pandemic responses.