Importance

"Vaccine image" American Psychological Association 2021

        The importance of the 1918 Spanish Flu was that, in the process of researching information for the vaccine, many crucial medical tools were developed and different ways to treat viruses were discovered. From the vaccine research, scientists were able to better understand genes and how chemicals affect them. Researchers were also able to use the information to aid in the creation of other vaccines. Many medical techniques that were used to treat the influenza virus are still used to research viruses today (“Medical Innovations…”). Now, flu vaccines are annually given out to the public to prevent another flu pandemic (Harris).​​​​​​​

"Children lining up to receive flu vaccinations"  Library of Congress 1940

​​​​​​​        The 1918 Spanish Flu was a major turning point in which medical history was changed for the better. While it was a tragic pandemic, the flu inspired many medical achievements that changed the course of medical history (“Medical Innovations…”).