ction
with the alleged Influenza Germs, our boys submitting to inoculation and
even to the repulsive ordeal of introduction into the nose and throat of
diseased mucous from and close contact with coughing and spitting bed
patients in the severest forms of the disease. The experiments were made
simultaneously at San Francisco and Boston under the direction of
Surgeons McCoy and Goldberger of the U.S. Health Department and the
Naval Authorities.

The astounding negative result as indicated by the press, was described
as "The Sensation of the day," for the fact was revealed that _Not one,
of the hundred who underwent these drastic and determined tests,
developed any symptoms of Influenza._ This picture of failure was
surmounted by the summing up of the situation on the part of the highest
Medical Authority; to this effect:

"These new experiments in the transmission of Influenza," said Surgeon
General Blue, "show how difficult is the Influenza Problem."

The result points clearly to a state of natural immunity enjoyed by
those who, like these men of the Naval Service, lead an hygienic,
contented well regulated life with the simple accessories of good and
sufficient food, fresh air and regular exercise.

The same principle has been recently demonstrated in England in the same
connection by the annual report of one of the great public schools
celebrated for hygienic methods, where amongst a total of 800 students
not a single case of influenza appeared--although no preventive measures
were employed beyond the simple rules of health and cleanliness.

Finally, as regards serums and specifics, the judgment of Dr. Karl F.
Meyer, of the Hooper Institute of Medical Research of the University of
California, may be accepted as focusing the consensus of unbiased
opinion on the subject. It was as follows: "Serums have not yet been
introduced which produce immunity from Spanish Influenza. The serums now
employed are of no use whatsoever. You have no idea how really and truly
helpless we are. As an example, take the advice given us by the Public
Health Department when we asked what should be done if the epidemic
struck West. They said: '_Organise your hospitals and undertakers_.'" In
the same statement Dr. Meyer declared that the Medical fraternity _is in
total darkness as to the cause and nature of the epidemic_.

Of other preventive measures resorted to--Masks, Quarantine and the veto
upon public gatherings--proved equally mistak