INFLUENZA.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16370, 15 November 1918, Page 6

INFLUENZA.

FIGHTING THE EPIDEMIC.

CAMPAIGN ORGANISED.

The influenza epidemic shows no sign of abating; if anything, it is severer than before, and yesterday several , people wero taken to the Hospital fully < clothed, as though they had collapsed ; before they were ablo to undress themselves and go to bed. Four more of the , nurses went down with the disease yes terday, and another of the doctors, and j the work of tho institution is being . carried on under tho most difficult con- ( ditions. Tho Hospital authorities speak ■ very highly of tho work performed by the volunteers, who have done yeoman service in several departments of the Hospital. The admission of new influenza cases into the institution yesterday numbered 20, and there were eight deaths. To-day Dr. Chesson hopes to have some extra medical assistance available for the general public. A. very largo liuaber of people, including tho Mavor (Mr H. Holland), Dr. H. Chesson, the Citv Councillors, Mayors of boroughs adjacent to Christchurch, Bishop Bradio, a number of clergy, lavmea, and Indies, assembled outside the City Council Chambers yesterday afternoon, to organise methods fjr effectively combating tho mfluenaa epidemic at present rife in the city and suburbs. . . Tho Mayor said that as the position was serious it seemed necessary to combine to fight the increasing evils of the influenza epidemic. Ho suggested the formation of a committee, or committees, to organise methods of prevention, to visit ana help tho sick, and to report to the District Health Officer. Though the spread of the epidemic was alarming, he deprecated any panic. Dr. Chesson, District Health Officer,, after enumerating tho places in which inhalation chambers had been, and wero to be, established, warned people who wAm nctuallv suffering from the

who were actually bimtumg iium ww disease from attending these inhalation stations. They were only meant as a protective measure for the general pub. lie and those who had been in contact with patients. It was obviously dangerous to allow any persons who were suffering from the disease to attend, as they would only help to spread the disease. Persons who wished to travel were amongst those who must attend, and a certificate would he isssued to them that they had cone through the treatment. He alluded to the establishment of the medicine depot in the Square, and said it 'was not intended that those people who had medical at-

tendance were to make use of it. Unfortunately many people had gono along and bought a bottle of medicine, apparently just for the fun of buying one,. and this would have to be stooped to conserve the 6Upply for those wfio really needed it. People who were ill and had made a call for a doctor, and were unable to get one, could now communicate with the Sguare depot, and from there temporary assistance would be supplied if at all possible, A large number of unregistered nurses had signified their willingness to assist, and their duty would be to go out to urgent cases and put ihe patients on the right linos. He trusted that mild: sufferers would not unduly take up the time of these nurses. It was, of course, impossible to put permanent assistance, in every homo. These nurses when they visited a home could form an opinion as to whether the case was serious, and, if so, they would procure medical assistance, or see that the case went to the Hospital. What was needed now was a number of local committees to take steps to seek out all the cases in their districts and bring thom under notice. The committees coula report to the central depot the conditions under which the patients were found, and could also advise as to what kind of help should be sent. All the suggested committees would be in touch with the Central Depot. Local committees dbuld also send tothe Central Depot for medicine or nursing assistance. He asked representatives from various districts organise committees on these lines. The telephone number of the Central Depot was 3707. He pointed out that the Hospital accommodation was very limited, and only able to cope with tne very scripus cases. The mild cases woul'd have to be nursed at home. Dr. Chesson announced that .airs Bristed. on behalf of the Plunket So-, ciety, had stated that the Society would look after babieß and children at the depot, 282 Armagh street, whoso parents were ill and unable to look after them, until they ' wcro better. (Applause.) He ' further asked the ladies who )iad volunteered tor service in Auckland to communicate with him and report for duty here.

The Mayor said the Red Cross organisation had the city mapped ouc in seven districts, and suggested that this organisation should bo utilised. Mr M. J. Gresson said that at a meeting, to be- held at Fendalton that evening, they .proposed to divide the district up into blocks, appoint oiie or two men for each block, who would call at each house and find out exactly where the disease was. These luen would make one or two calls per week at each house. 'Ihey also hoped to_ bo able to organise a ladies' committee which would take on the worn of visiting and supplying food to those households, where all wora stricken with the disease and assist generally. Fendalton had been divided into 18 blocks by lied Cross collectors, and it would be convenient to use these divisions and the Red Ciioss organisation. He suggested that any committees that might be formed should get at onco into tou'-u with the Red Cross. Mr J.. A. Flesher said that the whole city had not bt-eh blocked out by the lied Cross organisation. He thought if the various school committees wore utilised the whole area of Christchurch and suburbs would be covered. Mr Sorensen • said that Mr A. C. Maxwell had offered his services in any capacity or for organising in the .St. Ai baiis district. Mr G. Harper said the C.D.C. had offered to have its office open all day with someone in charge. 'lhe telephone number was 112:4, and any message sent there would at oncc lie transmitted to the central depot. lhe iiev. F. N. Tayior, on behalf of the Society for the I'rolection of Women and Children, said the Society nati put tne services of its secretary Miss Cardale, at the disposal of tne central depot for any work. Mr H. F. Herbert suggested that if the Health Olhcer thought it desirable all the factories and places of business in the city should be closed and fumigated, except those places which deait in foou and perishable articles. People undoubtedly congregated and loitered in shops as weii as in hotels. Dr. Chesson said although the epidemic was serious, there was no need to adopt panic measures. The public must, of course, use business* premises as little as possible and do their business as quickly as possiblo. If people did that there would not be any undue congestion. Sales and things of that sort should be absolutely taboo and also auction sales held indoors. Outdoor sales, such as stock sales, were not really harmful, and would not be prohibited at present. Mr Flesher said lie did not think thore was need for such drastic action. Ho moved that the Mayor and City Council,

with the Mayors of adjacent boroughs and chairmen of local bodies, bo olectet) as a central committee with power to add to their number. District tommit- - tecs could also be formed to repoit to and work with the central committer. The best treatment for the trouble was fresh air. and he thought shops might close a little earlier, but. ho did not sea the necessity for such a total dislocation of business as would occur if all places were closed down. Mr Howard seconded Mr Flesher's resolution. Ho strongly deprecated the idea of closinc tho factories and places of business, l'he people might just as well die of influenza as starvation. Mr Kerbort said he only suggested •he closing if tho Health Ofhcer thought it necessary. Mr W. S. Wharton said that what was really wanted was willing helpers who xmld go into the homes and assist with the nursing of people who were ill. Nurse Maude would handle all the organisation necessary, and she would be ivailable at tho central depot at 9 a.m. to-day to set everything going. Bui they must liavo tho workers, and plentv if them. It would also be a great help it people with oars would volunteer to drive the workers round to where thev ivere needed. .<3v this means the volunteer could cover moro ground and do more work ,-J- A. Russell, superintendent of! the iSelwvn Cursing Division, said tha ,*• J (, 'in Anuuuinco had already over J r ni) ,C sin s sisters out, and mothers of t am: lies were helping others who were stricken. Tho Association could not do moro than it was doing, Tho Rev. J. J. North said he had no dotibt the churches would be only too glad io supply deaconesses, sisters, and nuns for nursing work. A trained nurse present said she would be willing to attend anv severe case 1:1 the Riccarton district if a doctor could not ie obtained. A lift in wo'rk' greatly help her in hor Bishop Brodie said that he oould ati once give the servioes of 30 sisters for the use of the central depot. Tho Mar's* Brothers, whoso schools were closed, were skilled in ambulance work, and would bo willing to help. Ho approved! of tho use of a central committee with sub-committees who could control blocks a »rreport to tho central oomraittee. +1. t j llj i n . d off °rcd tho services ofc tile iiadj- .Liverpool workers in any

capacity m winch they might bo needed. Hie Rev. F. 2s . Taylor said that an important point which had been missed) was rho burial of tho dead. Tlio present facilities were quite inadequate. Jho only cure he could ego was to municlC"i ,s ?i undertaking business while the epidemic was at its height. Miss Caraale said it -was extremely important for the central depot to at once got workers who would go into the Sol-' GS Tf D +J, o, i j ' tl ' ,, l eiro people "were sicl». If they could only get poonle to thor 0l i! au . d f md out at onoe where tliore were sick people, much hardshin would be obviated. That day they had found a case whcro the father waa dead and the mother ill, with fivo small children to look after. Thero was another case where both father, mother, and two children were all ill in the house with Afrfcl' 0 OD f- look them, nn wLa ? motion was then put and' can ie« unanimously /.rrsßaw £P"2&£' 1110 8,116 0,, d '"Ai'ratioa Dr. Chesson said that Messrs ss charge would be madT£ cover SlYot pVv 16 food iSSUed t0 those ing mado by the *Jf co »- b 3'. districts

MEETING OF COMMITTEE. of T ?h« ]V i^ , L. pr^ided over moeting of the elected Control Committee in; the Council Chambers, in tho evenun? It was decided to ask Dr. Chesson to 008 ° t buS,nesa at 5.30 p.m. Tlie following were elected an execu™anaSe tho depot iu Cathedral square:—Nurse Maude Dr Ciiesson, the Mayor, and Messrs A. M. Logby, W. S. Wharton, and H. J. +»,!«,, W i as +i decided to issue a n appeal through tho papers for women workers th,SL °™ rto Btrlckm "«■

Mr Gordon Hutchison, who had helped to combat an epidemic of influenza m Johannesburg at the close of the South African war, sent a Jettcr, which was read by Mr J. A. Fleshor, explaining the manner in which the epidemic had been dealt with thero. One of the most important points was the organisation of patrols to patrol certain blocks of tho city. Every house was visited, and directly a case of illness was found tho central depot was notified. This anil several other points, said Mr l'lesher, cimously enough had boon jotted dowß by himself whon thinking out what should be done. Ho thought that the pnly way of dealing with Jho epidemic was by each district carrvinn out its own house-to-house inspection He considered thai meeting# should bo neid the next aiternoon in ull localities so that the whole district coufd be mapped out, and men and women appointed to inspect and notify tho central depot.

Mr Winsor, Mayor of Spreydon, said ho intended to organise on the lines mentioned by Mr Flesher. Mr McGregor Wright, Mayer of Woolston, approved of the block system of inspection, and said that he was arranging for a meeting in Woolston today. They had an inhalation chamber going. In answer to a question, Mr A. M. Loasby said outsido districts must make arrangements for medicine in wholesale quantities with the Hospital and Charitable Aid Board. It was extremely important that everyone should be impressed with tho necessity of providing their own bottles. Bottles were badly needed, and there should be a campaign started to collect all kinds of cleaned bottles Mr Flesher then moved a formal resolution, asking the Mayor to call meetings in all districts, as he had suggested. Mr Howard said it should bo made clear in tho advertisement calling the meetings that all citizens were wanted to attend the meetings, not merely those willing to assist. Mr Flesber'B motion was carried, and the mooting proceeded to decide on a list of places at which meetings should be held

lIEALTH DEPARTMENTS FORMULA. (PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAIO WELLINGTON. November 14. The Public Healtji Department has issued tho following formula for the treatment of influenza. Ammoniated tincture of quinine is advised at the outset. Tho standard mixture for in- 4 fluenza is:— Sodium salicylate, grains o. Tincture of nux vomica, minims 3. Liquor ammonium acetate, minims 30. Chloroform and water up to half— an ounce. One tablespoonful three times * . day. The Department will as soon as possible make up supplies of this mixture for distribution, but in the tteaa- ,4 time Hospital Boards are recommended to carry bulk stock and distribute WjW

throughout tiicir districts at one shil- ' ling P^ 1 " bottle, ami free to all necessitous eases.

distribution* of medicine. DRISK DEMAND BY THE PUBLIC. Von- brisk business was done at the Patriotic Bazaar in the Square yesterday which "as opened as a depot for the'distribution of standard influenza medicine. The medicine, which has been mixed .it the Hospital dispensary, was bi-oujilit down in large domijoLas and bottled at the depot. It is extreme--]v important for the members of the public to realise that, if possible, they jnust brinj; their o»vn battles and corks. Anv kind"oi' b:ittle will do, as long as it 'is ilea"- A chargo is being made for the medicine at the rat© of Is 6d for 8 fluid ouncca; if a bottle has to bo Biipplic*'. the charge will be 2s, but if an applicant can 6how that he or sho is reallv unable to pay for it the medicine will be supplied free. Mrs Holland, with Mrs Neville and several willing helpers, were on duty at the distribution station yesterday, and wero kept extremely busv all day. The callers who happened to be of the foniale sex all seemed extremely serious when they made their application for the medicine," but several men were inclined to take the matter jocularly, and invited their friends to "como and have one with me." The medicine depot in the square closed nt ' ast evening. Owing the rU9 k was found impossible to manufacture the medicine in sufficient quantities, and the staff, who had been working very lone hours, was about "played out." It is hoped in future to keep open during the evening also. Peoplp who purchase the standard inodicine are warned not to use it in larger doses than marked on the bottle labels. The medicine is not a "summer beverage" by any means, and it is not u preventive. It is for neople who have the disease, and its use is only for those •who will carry out the conditions, one of which is confinement to bed. NURSING ASSISTANCE, It has been arranged that the headquarters of the voluntary nurses, under Xurse Maude, shall be at the Patriotic Bazaar, in Cathedral square which has boen connected with tho telephone oxchange, the number being 3707. Anyone in need of assistance in connexion with the influenza epidemic is requested to ring up that number. No guarantee can bo given that medical assistance will be provided, but a voluntary nurse will bo sent along, an,d if she reports that tho patient's condition i 9 such as to warrant the attention of a medical man, every endeavour will be made to send one. INHALATION STATIONS. A steady stream of people passed through the central inhalation stations resterday, but the crowds were a good Ileal smaller than before, owing probably to the.tact that several other stations had been established in other parts of the city and suburbs. The central station, which was chiefly in use, t. as the on© opposite the City Council's Electrical Department, and this proved sufficient to cope with those members of the public who wished to bo snrayed. Mr A. W. Nicol, the. Chief Inspector for tho North Canterbury Hospital Board, was very busy yesterday establishing inhalation chambers in traracara offered for the purpose by the Christchurch Tramway Board. In the morning three cars wero got in good going order, proving very suitable for the purpose. These cars wero situated at Sumner, Now Brighton, and the Coronation street stop and they were staffed by men provided by the Sumner, New Brighton, and Spreydon Borough Councils respectively. -Four other stations were organised in tramcars in diffeient ' parts of tho town during the afternoon, these being at St. A'bans (Office road), Lincoln road (Trotting Club Grounds loop) Falsgtave stroot (tram shed), and at the Linwood Post Office. In all cases the public were only too glad to avail themselves of the opportunities for inhalation provided. 10-day the inspector hopes to have another halfdozen cars in commission for spraying purposes. These will be situated in the following localities: Fendalton (Clyde road loop), Iticcartqn (corner of Jttiocarton road and Allen street)> Opawa (teiminus), Shirley (Golf Olub loop), Sydenham (intersection of Colombo 1 street and Fisher street), and St. Albans (Warrington street). It js hoped that these cara willbe available for use from 7 a.m., but Mr Nicol states that it i 9 possible that he may not be able to get round all the cars tp give some further instructions by that time. In any case, a start will be made at «lio earliest possible moment. TELEPHONE EXCHANGE. APPEAL TO SUBSCRIBERS. There are no fewer than 86 of the , Operators at the Christeiiurch 'l'eiepnoue Jbxcnange away from duty suffering. from and the service yesterday was only maintained with tho assistance- or outsiders. 'lhe superintendent, Mr H. P. Wyatt, in a puoiic notice appearing in anothor column in this issue, requests tele- . phone subscribers to confine rings to absolutely urgent business matters, as the Excbange staff is seriously de- - pleted through the influenza epidemic, . and if consideration for the attendants is not shown, the service will have to be curtailed, and probably confined to dealing only with cases of sickness. The District Health Officer (Dr. H. Chesson) and' the hospital authorities also request that telephone communications with their respective offices should bo restricted to matters of the utmost importance and most pressing urgency. Dr. Chesson's office staff has been groatly curtailed owing xo its members succumbing to influenza, and the Hospital Board's office staff has been reduced by seven owing to tho same cause. Every non-essential call on the telephone, therefore, imposes a great deal of unnecessary work on stalls already overworked. TELEGRAPH OFFICE TROUBLES. ! Sir Joseph Ward (Postmaster-Gene-ral) announces that owing to shortness of staff, not only in Wellington, but also at other telegraph offices, there is an excessive accumulation of work. Ho anticipates that work will resume its ordinary course within a day or two; Tho Chnstchurch telegraph office has . been working under a very big handicap owing to depletion of "the staff by influenza. Sixteen of th e operators were off duty yesterday, and out of eight despatch clerks, only threo were well enough, to take up their work yesterday. the port and suburbs. ■ A special mooting of the Lyttelton Borough Council was held last evening to make arrangements in connexion with combatting tho influonza epidemic. Present— Cr. J. It. Webb (chairman), Crs. F. G. Norton, J. T. Norton. J. T. Brice, G. Morris, and J. HL Collins. The town clerk announced that the acoomfnodation at, and tho staff of, the casualty ward were being severely taxed, and another ward was imperative. Cr. F. G. Norton suggested that tho bedding and stretchers at Godley House, Diamond Harbour, be utilised to meet the emergency. The chairman sjid it was tho duty of tho Council to give every assistance to the community, and to endeavour to enlist the services of as many public-spirited people as possible to help those whose duty it was to attend to the victims of tho disease.

Cr. Collins moved that the Council lend th G Hospital Board such furniture and bedding from Godley House as would be required to furnish nil auxiliary hospital in the port. The motion was carried unanimously, it being decided to use a large building a t the corner of London and Coleridge streets for the purpose. The Council doeided to issue posters urging residents of Lyttelton to assist in combatting the outbreak by using every possible means of improving the sanitary conditions about tneir homes, to read all advice published by the Public Health Department in regard to influenza, and to refrain from travelling except in case of urgent necessity, it will also be made widely known that a supply of disinfectant and standard inI fluenza remedy is available tor the pubI lie at the Fire Station, Oxford street, ! provided that persons requiring it bring suitable bottles. There are fifteen casc>3 of influenza on an oversea barque at present anchored in the stream, but five have nearly recovered. Most of the vessels in port have so Feral light cases aboard. In all there have been four deaths among seamen.

A meeting was hold in the Sumner Borough Council Chambers last night to make arrangoments for coping with the influenza epidemic in the borough. Arrangements were made to canvass the borough, in order to ascertain the amount of sickness, and what assistance is required. Several gentlemen present volunteered for this work, and were appointed inspectors. A committee of ladies, under tho supervision of Mrs Crawford, was set up to organise nursing and any household assistance required. It was decided to enrol the Boy Scouts as' messengers, Messrs Galwey and Allen being appointed to allocate the work. It was decided to invito all willing to givo assistance to hand in their names to the Town Clerk, and the Borough Council office was fixed as headquarters. Arrangements for the supply of disinfectants wero made, and these may be obtained on application at the Borough Council office. Major Loach was appointed supervisor. It was reported that over 900 had visited the inhalation chamber during the day. A well-attended motting was held at Fendalton last night, when a big committee -was set up to deal with the epidemic. An executive was also formed, consisting of Messrs M. Gresson (chairman), Alpers, Macfarlane, Hervey, Kerruish, and Dr. Evans. The whole district was mapped out into blocks and patrols appointed. To-day overj 1 house will be visited, and cards left at each, giving full instructions regarding what to do in the case of the disease breaking out. The patrolmen will send in comprehensive reports on their visits to the Central Committee, which will notify the Health Department. Tho patrolmen will also see that each person who is not ill, undergoes inhalation treatment at least twice a week. A depot was established to supply medicine to urgent cases, and it is hoped to have the services of two nurses at it. A ladies' committee will be set up to-day from ladies of the National Roserve and lied Cross executive, to supply food to the depot, and also, if possible, to assist in worldng at the stricken homes. Arrangements were also made for motors and Boy Scouts, 'to take nurses and workers round, and to run messages. The Mayor of "Woolston (Mr McGregor Wright) has convened a meeting of the residents of Woolston for 7.30 o'clock this evening, at the Boiougii Couricil Chambers, to set up committees to organise work in connexion with the epidemic in the borough. In view of the importance of the matter the Mayor requests that there should be a representative attendance. NOTES. The first of the series of municipal band concerts was to have been given in Victoria square last night by Derry's Kand, bub in view of uie serious nature pi the epidemic the Mayor gave instructions that the concert snould not take place. The Mayor (Mr H. Holland) is considering the desirableness of postponing the meeting of the City Council to be held next Monday evening. If it is decided to hold the meeting tne public gallery will be closed. The Mayoress (Mrs H. with the assistance of willing yesterday made a number of muslin masks for the use of those who may have to go into houses in which people are suffering from influenza. Dr. W. K Stevens, of New Brighton, is among the/BUll'erers from influenza. Owing to the epidemic and to the fact that there is only one gun carriage available, Defence Headquarters announces that it will be impossible to provide military ceremonies for soldiers' funerals. Orders have been issued by Defence Headquarters cancelling all Territorial and Senior Cadet parades for the next fourteen days. At the end of • that period further instructions will be given. Both the Magistrate's Court and the Supreme Court have been closed by order of the Health authorities until further notice. The monthly meeting of the Canterbury .Automobile Association, which was to havo been held last night, has been postponed indefinitely in consequence of the influenza epidemic. Yesterday between 80 and 90 members of the traffic staff of the Tramway Board were off duty owing to influenza, and the full timetable service could not bo maintained. ..However, the service proved adequate, though on occasions there was considerable overcrowding. As showing the reduction in the service it might be said that on ordinary days there are 95 cars and trailers in operation at 5 p m., but yesterday the total was 36. It is particularly requested by the health authorities that as few persons as possible should attend funerals. The congregation of people together, even in small numbers, may help to spread the disease, and even small precautions such as this must be taken.

The Mayor (Mr H. Holland), jas chairman of the Board of Governors of tho McLean Institute, has instructed the secretary not to call meetings of the Board or of its committees, in consequence of the epidomic. Matters of urgency connected vith the Board's institutions will be dealt with by the executive committee.

A correspondent, "ex-Socialist," who arrived by the Mararoa on Tuesday morning, writes to complain of the methods adopted to secure that the passengers pass through the inhalation chamber. The passengers were kept crowded on the aeck, and wer e allowed off only twenty at a time. Our correspondent suggests that passengors be allowed to loave the steamer and wait on the wharf, and that in place of the present chamber a building close by should be utilised which people could enter at one end and leave by the other. Anyone who has_clean bottles of any description is asked to give them in at the central medicine depot in Cathedral square. There is a great shortage of bottles, and boys and girls can assist in fighting the epidemic if they set out on a bottle-collecting campaign. By notification appearing in another part of this issue, tlie District Health Officer orders that all shops must be closed at 6 p.m. to-day. in order to prevent the sproad of infection caused by the congestion of business. Th" Paparna Cornty Council announce that supplies of standard medicine may be obtained at the Council's office, Sockburn. Applicants are asked +ft clean bottle and cork. Tl>o nublic will not he admitted to tJ Grounds of the Aviation School at Sockbnm during the prevalence of the MaTor of New Brighton (Mr F. Kibb?ewhite> "urgas residents to avail themselves, of the inhalation tram chamto flatted to St. Saviour's Orphanage, Shirley, till furihWie sSStion Army Maternity Home,

Bealcy avenue, is closed to and maternity patients till the epidemic is over. There will be no sale at Tattersall s to-morrow, owing to the epidemic. _ The consecration of Lodge Acacia, AVaikari, has been postponed to a future dale.

Th 6 New Zealand Farmers' Co-opera-tivo Association lias extonded the discount period to the 20th inst. New Brighton residents arc requested to attend a meeting at the Pier tonight, at 7.30 o'clock, to organise a campaign against influenza. The annual meeting of the Association of the Lovo of God has been postponed till February 2Qth, 1919. Tiie Banks Peninsula A. and P. Association's Show lias been postpontd indefinitely. In Sydenham Park, on Sunday, at 11 a.m', and 6.30 p.m., united church services will be held; and at 2.30 p.m. there will be a united Sunday schools gathering.

! IN IHE COUNTRY. HALS WELL. There aro a great number of influenza cases in tho district, some of pneumonic character. Tho schools are closed, and all entertainments have been cancelled. LAKE COLERIDGE. A rather serious state of affaire is reported in connexion with tho staff at Lake Coleridge, in chargo of the hydroelectric powerhouse. Of the eight members of that staff four are down with influenza, and it is feared that if the staff is further depleted thcro may be some difficulty in keeping tho_ system working. An urgent appeal is mads Lv tho Public Health authorities and tho Public Works authorities for a nurse, trained or untrained, to nurse tho cases at Lake Coleridge. Tho usual pay and expenses will be allowed. TUAHIWI. Influenza is very prevalent here at present, hardly a house escaping. Up till tho latter part of last week the cases were of a mild nature, but those at present suffering seem to have developed a far more serious malady, and several cases of pneumonia have been notified. Relief from tho Health Department has been sought, as many of the houses have every inmate stricken. KAIAPOI. The influenza epidemic is spreading, and though as yet there have been "no fatal cases, there are many of a serious nature, and the sole local doctor is being kept extremely busy. About half the employees of tho AVoollon Mills have contractod the complaint, while business people are affected to a serious extent, and trade is almost at a standstill. The inhalation chamber opened by the Borough Council was thronged all day yesterday. RAKAIA. The influenza epidemic is spreading in the districts about Rakaia, and its effect is seen in a lessening of activities in many directions. The peace celebrations were, affected, as there were cases of almost whole families being down at tho one time. The Chertsey shear-ing-shed has been closed for a week, as shearers and farmers are ill. It is intended to re-open on Monday, but this dopends on the progress of tho disease. From many of the larger farms, carrying big flocks, it is reported that shearing, which usually commences just after the Chrißtchurch Show, has not yet commenced. The Loan and Mercantiio Agency Co. has been hard hit, the Chertsey store has been closed, a youth loft in charge of the large Rakaia store, and only one employee in the Rakaia office. - Reports show that the epidemic is wide-spread, cases occurring at Rokeby, Dorio, Kyle, Mead, Te Pirita, and away back at Bayfield, and Snowdon stations. Tho local doctor being a patient, medical help has had to be secured from Methven. The symptoms appear to be severe pains in tho head and chest, and a very high temperature. An inhalation chamber wis established by a few enthusiasts at Rakaia yestei day, and several residents ventured therein, but the strength was rather overproof. The Rakaia Post Office was closed yesterday from 10.30 a.m., fdr the purposes of disinfection, only the telephone exchange being open.

ASHBURTON. Influenza of a comparatively mild type has been prevalent in and around Ashburton for several weeks past, and four cases havo been admitted to hospital. As a precaution an inhalation chamber is being fitted up, and shops and offices are being sprayed with disinfectants. At a public meeting last night, the.Mayor presiding, it was decided to spray the streets every day. The Mayor stated that tho Council would supply disinfectants to residents free of charge. Provision was made for the supply of food where necessary, and Mr Ferriman undertook to provide milk to all those in need of it. It was agreed that all public meetings should be abandoned, but to hold over the matter of closing the churches till to-morrow. It was agreed to ask the Government to ?rohibit all unnecessary railway traffic, t was reported that arrangements had been made for the accommodation of severe cases at tho Hospital, and that Red Cross workers > had undertaken to provide extra nursing where required.

STILL MANY HEATHS IN AUCKLAND. PROMINENT VICTIMS YESTERDAY. (PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) AUCKLAND, November 14. Tho position generally continues to improve, as the result of organised effort and the concentration o| serious cases. Many deaths, however, are still occurring. It is believed that the climax has passed, but the combative forces realise that any relaxation of effort would reverse the position. Many voluntary workers are now at the point of collapse. Tho waterside workers have decided to cease work at 5 o'clock each evening during the epidemic, the reason given being sickness in their families. To-day's victims include:— Major McGilp, N.Z.F.A., Main Body. Lieutenant Eric Coatee, Main Body, Wellington Mounted Rifles. Judge "Wilson, of the Native Land Court. Mr John Duder, chief officer of the steamer Arahura. Mr J. H. Clayton, chief officer of the steamer "Whangape. IMMEDIATE BURIAL IN AUCKLAND. CENTRALISING SERVICES. There have been anywhere between 20 and 30 deaths daily in Auckland during tho last five days (says Tuesday's "Star.") Acting under Section 50 of the Public Health Act, 1908, Dr. Frengley has .issued an order that requires all the bodies of persons who died from influenza and ; its .complications to be buried forthwith. A very little thought will make it clear that this is a necessary steo, for the funeral undertakers about the city have received and are still receiving more orders than they can Dossihly carry out without delay.

I! . The order by the Acting-Chief Health > . Officer puts upon the friends . i tives ot all dead persons the i ! bility for seeing that those wno have idied shall be buried u'lthout aeLy. It , is a notification that if the? i do not see that the body ls> within reasonable time, it becomes - duty of the local authority itself to - arrange for the burial. .^ 1 , m,st 1 ers ; °/ religion are asked to keep in touch with 1 these arrangements, so that all persons will be interred in the spaces a Jotted to members of the respective religions. Dr. Frenglev emphasises the point that people should not complain if they find that the bodies of rolarivcs or friends have been buried by the local authorities because others have not been able to secure immediate burial, as re- , quired by the orders. . Much talk is being; occasioned by dis--1 torted tales recounting-fabulous num- • bers of bodies niled in various p.aces, 5 adds the "Star." There are several private mortuaries in the city, and these are mostly in use. In the public ™ or " tuary in the Hospital grounds those who have died at the various hospitals are being placed, and the practice of relatives taking bodies away to their private homes has been stopped, as i this, in the opinion of the Health _au- • thorities, is likely to spread infection. 1 It is this action of the Health Office . that makes it eeem as if there are more dead neople in the mortuaries than there should be, and, as is natural, ex--3 travagant rumours are being based i upon this fantasy. Thero is a . porary mortuary at Victoria /ark, - where dead persons are being hud for t a day or two at most till they aie > taken away to the cemeteries. > A great deal of talk about bodies to i be incinerated is also farcical. Til© > people who deal with interments are I hard worked, but they are making art rangements with all sneed. and there is > sometimes a little delav, but not much I congestion. The position is that the Health authorities will not- allow the bodies of those who die to be distributed in private homes. So they are placed in the mortuaries. It centralises the ' arrangements for interment, just as ar--1 rancements for relief have been cen--1 tralised, and conduces to the better ' health of the people.

IMPROVISED HOSPITALS IN WELLINGTON. ' (press association telegram.) WELLINGTON, November 14. The Town Hal! has been turned into a hospital, also St. Patrick's College and St. John's schoolroom. For tho whole of the Health District the Department has been notiiied of 135 cases of pneumonia, mostly from the country. THE EPIDEMIC IN TIMARU. (PRESS association telegram.) TIMARU, Novoraber 14. The influenza epidemic has gripped Timaru. . A public meeting, presided over by the Mayor, at which all the local doctors were present, was Held to-day, and measures were decided upon to combat the disease. Voluntary workers are being organised to assist stricken householders. A circular has been issued on the advice of all the local medical mon, recommending the precautions to be taken. There were eight cases in tho Timaru Hospital to-day. Inhalation chambers have been established in town. It has beon decided to ask the Government to immediately close all hotel bars. DR. CHAMPTALOUP'S THEORY. (PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) DUJSEDLN, November 14. Three deaths from influenza occurred in tho hospital to-day. Dr. Champtaloup, Professor of Bacteriology and Government Bacteriologist, expresses a definite opinion that the present outbreak in Now Zealand is a form of influenza. The bacillus, is not that of true influenza. Another group of micro-organisms, almost universally present throughout the world, are.responsible for the in-fluenza-like symptoms and the supervening pneumonia.

POSITION IN DUNEDIN. (special to "the press.") DUNEDIN, November 14. Influenza is causing a good deal of concern in Dunedin. All the pubiic schools are to be closed until tlie 22nd inst. At to-day's meeting of the Education Board it was stated that in one public school 103 pupils were absent and some of the teachers were struggling at the school who should be in bed. The public library and the Dunedin Athenaeum hare ceased to issue lending books. TWO SOUTHLAND PAPERS CEASE PUBLICATION. (PRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) INVERC/ARGILL, November 14. Influenza is prevalent. One hundred and six inmates of the reformatory Erison are down, also six nurses at the ospital. A public meeting was held to-night to arrange precautionary measures. Some country districts are badly affected. Two country papers have ceased publication, the staffs being down. All places of entertainment have been closed and race meetings prohibited.

MANUKA QUARANTINED. (By Cable.—Pregs Association.—Copyright) (Received November 14th. 11.25 p.m.) SYDNEY, November 14. Tho Manuka has been quarantined. There are 33 influenza cases aboard. THE INFLUENZA MASK. TO THE EDITOR OF "THE PRESS." Sir, —I have been asked to explain how l use this as a protection against influenza. My belief is that infection takes place chiefly by inhaling fresh germs newly discharged from the throat and nose of an intected person. So when I go into tho bedroom of a patient I filter the air I breathe by means of a double layer of wet finest butter muslin closely applied to my nose and mouth. The germs are caught on the damp surface next the air. Fold this infected surface carefully together and as soon as possible drop the muslin into a saucepan and boil ono minute, when it can be wrung out and used again. The muslin is applied to the mouth by means of two pieces of tape fastened to the upper two inches of either sides of the muslin and then tied at the back of. the head. The finer the mesh and the more number of layers of muslin tho more efficacious it is, provided you can breathe comfortably through it. In spite of being somewhat run down in health and being brought into daily contact with influenza cases, I have so far managed to safeguard myself by the above simple method. I understand that at the suggestion of the medical officers of health the ladies of the Red Cross are making influenza masks approved bv him, which can be obtained at their "stall in Cathedral square. These may be had free of cost to those who do not wish to contribute anything for ihem.-Y.ars, eto.. November 14th.

THE SHORTAGE OF DOCTORS. TO TUB EDITOR OF "TOE PRESS." gi r jn view of the serious shortage of medical aid, is it possible some or those doctors who now devote themselves to specialising could be commandeered to work as genera! Practitioners and thus relieve the present dangerous situation. There are at least six or more such men in ennstchurch. Yours, ete., AJJXIOUS .