Mask Resistance During a Pandemic Isn’t New — in 1918 Many Americans Were 'Slackers'

As the US battled the 1918 influenza pandemic, some communities staged contentious battles against wearing masks. Sound familiar?

By J. Alexander Navarro, University of Michigan.
Jul 30, 2020 5:00 PMNov 3, 2020 4:51 PM
1497px-Spanish flu in 1918, Police officers in masks, Seattle Police Department detail, from- 165-WW-269B-25-police-l (cropped)
Policemen in Seattle wearing masks made by the Red Cross during the influenza pandemic. (Credit: National Archives)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

We have all seen the alarming headlines: Coronavirus cases are surging in 40 states, with new cases and hospitalization rates climbing at an alarming rate. Health officials have warned that the U.S. must act quickly to halt the spread – or we risk losing control over the pandemic.

There’s a clear consensus that Americans should wear masks in public and continue to practice proper social distancing. While a majority of Americans support wearing masks, widespread and consistent compliance has proven difficult to maintain in communities across the country. Demonstrators gathered outside city halls in Scottsdale, ArizonaAustin, Texas; and other cities to protest local mask mandates. Several Washington state and North Carolina sheriffs have announced they will not enforce their state’s mask order.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.