Ministry Of History

Podcast

Spanish Flu: The Invisible Killer at the End of the First World War

Spanish Flu: The Invisible Killer at the End of the First World War

Often referred to as the 'forgotten pandemic,' the Spanish flu of 1918 claimed an estimated 50 million lives in just one year—more than twice the death toll of the First World War, which was just winding down as the virus ramped up. Unlike typical influenza outbreaks, this deadly virus primarily went for young adults aged 20–40, an age group usually less vulnerable to such illnesses.


Why was the Spanish flu so deadly for young people? Where did it originate, and why was it called the 'Spanish flu'? And what lessons can we learn from it, especially in light of the recent Covid-19 pandemic? Listen to the episode to find out the answer to these questions and uncover the story behind one of the deadliest pandemics in human history.


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Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram.



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