The Cook Islands
p. 35 · Read in the full issue
Flu’ Epidemic In
33 Deaths Reported
Prom Our Own Correspondent
Rarotonga, Dec. 29.
THE influenza epidemic which affected Fiji and many of the Islands in the Pacific in November has been particularly serious in the Cooks. To date over 3,500 cases have been reported, this figure representing approximately 25% of the total population of the group.
Throughout December restrictions were placed on all public gatherings, including church services, cinemas, dances, etc., but these will be lifted in the New Year, there being indications that the infection has abated.
Deaths from pneumonic complications have been 33 in all. There would have been more deaths if it had not been for prompt recognition of the symptoms and good education of the native population.
Rarotonga, the main island of the group, was most seriously affected, and the Festive season lacked its customary verve this year.