Spanish flu in Turin as told by historical autopsy reports

Abstract

Spanish flu spread worldwide between 1918 and 1920 causing over 20 million deaths, exceeding even the number of deaths registered during the First World War (WWI). The main symptom of the disease was hemorrhagic tracheobronchitis, the onset of which was typically sudden and fatal. Young, healthy people died quickly. Despite the tragic impact of the disease on populations, already exhausted by the First World War, there is very little documentation. This was likely due to the severe censorship of the time. For this reason, autopsy reports can be a relevant source of information on the disease. Historical catalogues kept in Turin, where all autopsies were detailed, can be consulted. According to the "Regolamento di Polizia Mortuaria" dating back to 1892, autopsies were to be performed on all patients that died at home or in hospital. Therefore, autopsy reports showing the spread of diseases among the population can also help us obtain information about the spread of Spanish flu in Turin. While not documented, almost certainly the "Regolamento" was improperly implemented since just 45 cases of Spanish flu were reported, while deaths were most certainly daily and in their hundreds. According to autopsy reports, the first case occurred on 8th October 1918, although, the first official diagnosis is dated as being 24th November 1918. The records show that 18 people died during the first Italian pandemic wave. The second Italian pandemic wave seems to have been even more aggressive in Turin with 27 people having died between 8th January 1920 and 7th February 1920.

Keywords: Spanish flu; ancient autopsy reports; history of pandemic.