a catalogue of documented anomalies on planet Earth // maintained by the Aliens
> RECORD OBS-0583 | status: DEBUNKED | filed 2026-07-31
Home > Health > 1918 Flu First Wave Was Most Lethal

1918 Flu First Wave Was Most Lethal

RecordOBS-0583
CategoryHealth/Pandemics
StatusDEBUNKED
SummaryIt is often assumed that the first wave of the 1918 flu pandemic was the deadliest. Historical data shows the second wave was far more lethal.
OriginThe initial outbreak in spring 1918 was relatively mild, but the second wave in autumn 1918 caused the most deaths.
Claimed
  • The first wave of the 1918 flu pandemic was the most lethal.
Evidence / consensusThe second wave (October-December 1918) had the highest death rates. The first wave was relatively mild, and a third wave in spring 1919 was intermediate.
> OBSERVER NOTE:
The deadliest phase came later, likely due to a more virulent strain spreading in crowded conditions. The first wave was a warning, not the peak.

Sources

  1. Ten Myths About the 1918 Flu Pandemic

Sources are external and provided for verification. Listing does not imply the Observer endorses their claims.