Epidemic Response and Reflections on the 1918—1919 Influenza Pandemic in Shanghai

Shanghai, as one of the first cities in China to undergo modernization, was severely affected by the 1918—1919 influenza pandemic, experiencing three waves of the epidemic in the summer of 1918, the autumn of 1918, and the spring of 1919. This paper systematically reviews historical materials related to the 1918—1919 Shanghai influenza epidemic, reconstructing the city's comprehensive response to the outbreak. It analyzes the causes and spatiotemporal distribution of the epidemic in Shanghai, and documents the epidemic prevention and control measures implemented in Shanghai. These measures include the establishment of epidemic hospitals and temporary epidemic relief hospitals, the promotion of mask-wearing, and the implementation of health education. The paper also explores the significant role of various social entities in epidemic prevention and control. By reflecting on the Shanghai influenza pandemic and its prevention and control measures a century ago, the paper aims to provide insights and references for future epidemic responses.