Last month we heard about the triumph of the Salk polio vaccine. Polio was a dreaded disease that could paralyze and even kill, and children were the most vulnerable. Before a vaccine, little could be done.
On this date in 1946, North Dakota’s worst polio outbreak was beginning. It struck dozens of towns, most prevalent among children younger than 10.
With the growing of number cases, North Dakota’s acting state health officer declared an emergency. He called for preventive measures that included isolating children awaiting diagnosis; adjusting the chlorine content in the water supply and swimming pools; and prompt reporting of cases. Hospitals banned visitors. Mothers kept their children away from movie theaters and public gatherings. Soda fountains and restaurants were viewed as major places to catch the virus.