Russian Flu in Iran from 1889 to 1894

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• History of Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• The Russian flu (Asiatic flu) pandemic occurred globally between 1889-1894.
• Estimates suggest approximately one million deaths worldwide.
• Specific mortality data for Iran during this pandemic is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the Russian flu's impact and spread in Iran.
• To document the epidemic using historical, journalistic, and medical records.
• To understand the disease's arrival and progression through Iran.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of historical documents.
• Review of journalistic accounts.
• Examination of medical records and dissertations.

Main Results:

• The Russian flu spread to Iran from the north, northeast, and northwest.
• Major Iranian cities like Tehran and Tabriz reported significant cases.
• The epidemic occurred in two waves in Iran (1890 and 1892).
• Limited transportation infrastructure in Iran may have mitigated its spread.
• Physicians in Tehran and Tabriz documented numerous cases, writing dissertations.

Conclusions:

• The Russian flu significantly impacted Iran, causing unexpected casualties.
• The study highlights the importance of historical records in understanding past epidemics.
• Iran's unique geographical and infrastructural factors influenced the epidemic's course.