1957–1958 influenza pandemic

Asian flu in Sweden 1957 (2)

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Asian flu in Sweden 1957

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Monthly time series of all‐cause and respiratory mortality per 10,000 people in Chile, 1953–1959.jpg

1957–1958 influenza pandemic

The 1957–1958 influenza pandemic, also known as the Asian flu, was a global outbreak of influenza that originated in East Asia and spread worldwide. It was caused by a new strain of the Influenza A virus known as H2N2. This pandemic resulted in significant morbidity and mortality, with estimates of the death toll ranging from one to two million people globally.

Origin and Spread

The pandemic is believed to have originated in Guizhou province, China, in early 1957. The virus quickly spread to Hong Kong and then to other parts of Asia. By the summer of 1957, the virus had reached the United States, Europe, and other continents, facilitated by increased international travel and trade.

Virology

The H2N2 virus was a novel strain that resulted from a reassortment of avian and human influenza viruses. This reassortment led to the emergence of a virus to which the human population had little to no preexisting immunity. The virus contained genes from an avian influenza virus, which contributed to its high transmissibility and pathogenicity.

Impact

The 1957–1958 influenza pandemic had a profound impact on global health. In the United States alone, it is estimated that around 70,000 people died. The pandemic also caused widespread illness, leading to significant economic and social disruption. Schools, workplaces, and public services were affected as large numbers of people fell ill.

Public Health Response

Public health responses varied by country but generally included measures such as quarantine, vaccination, and public awareness campaigns. A vaccine was developed relatively quickly, and mass vaccination efforts were implemented in many countries. However, the rapid spread of the virus meant that many people were infected before the vaccine became widely available.

Legacy

The 1957–1958 influenza pandemic highlighted the importance of global surveillance and rapid response to emerging infectious diseases. It also underscored the need for ongoing research into influenza viruses and the development of effective vaccines and antiviral treatments.

See also

• 1918 influenza pandemic
• 1968 influenza pandemic
• Influenza A virus
• Pandemic

Further reading

• Influenza
• Pandemic preparedness

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