Throughout its history, Leeds has endured more than one epidemic. Sadly, disease and outbreaks have claimed many lives in the city and the wider region. Today, we take a look back at how Leeds battled influenza in the last century. You can find more information on the pages of ileeds.info.
The Virus Spread Rapidly
The influenza epidemic of 1889–1890, often referred to as the “Russian” or “Asiatic” flu, had a significant impact on Leeds and the whole of West Yorkshire. The virus spread at great speed, aided by the railway network and the movement of people through major cities. Epidemiologists estimate that this pandemic claimed around one million lives worldwide. At the time, no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments were available.
In Leeds, treatment was largely symptomatic: fever-reducing remedies, occasional use of quinine or phenazone, local pain relief, and even whisky or brandy to ease fever symptoms. Care also included isolating the sick to prevent further spread of the disease.
The Introduction of Vaccination
Influenza and other respiratory patients in Leeds were often treated at the Leeds General Infirmary, founded in 1767. This hospital played a central role in caring for those with infectious diseases, including flu. Numerous local doctors also worked tirelessly to support patients during outbreaks.
In the first half of the 20th century, particularly after the devastating Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, Leeds adopted more systematic public-health measures: quarantine, restrictions on public gatherings, hygiene campaigns (such as handwashing and the use of gauze masks), and dedicated hospital wards for influenza patients. From the mid-20th century onwards, influenza vaccination was gradually introduced, significantly reducing both mortality and large-scale outbreaks. In Leeds, these vaccines were administered in municipal clinics and through public health services, coordinated by the NHS after its establishment in 1948.
During the 20th century, Leeds also developed innovative approaches to epidemiological surveillance and medical statistics, allowing faster responses to rising infection rates and better containment of outbreaks.
Recognising the Symptoms of Influenza
Decades have passed, but influenza remains a regular visitor to Leeds and the surrounding region. Key symptoms include:
- A sudden onset of illness with a high temperature, typically 38°C or above, lasting 2–5 days.
- Signs of systemic intoxication: severe headache, muscle and joint pain, and pronounced weakness.
- Chills, sweating, and rapid fatigue.
- Cough (usually dry) and sore throat.
- In some cases—particularly in children—nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Interestingly, a runny nose is relatively uncommon with flu. All of these symptoms result from the rapid multiplication of the virus and a strong inflammatory response, particularly in the respiratory tract. Complications can include pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, myocarditis, and meningitis, often signalled by worsening symptoms, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, or confusion.
To help prevent this respiratory illness, doctors strongly recommend timely vaccination, which can reduce the severity of the disease—or help avoid it altogether.
As we have seen, in the 20th century Leeds’ fight against influenza evolved from largely symptomatic treatment and quarantine to systematic vaccination and the use of modern medical technologies, leading to a significant decline in deaths from the infection.
We hope you’ve found this article both interesting and informative, and that you’ve learned a little more about your home city.