Encephalitis lethargica, a pandemic that emerged around 1916, caused widespread death and disability, significantly impacting both physical and mental health. Patients exhibited profound sleepiness, sometimes sleeping for weeks, with many eventually developing Parkinson's-like symptoms and personality changes. Unlike modern pandemics, the origins remain uncertain, but potential causes include autoimmune encephalitis or immune reactions following infections. The pandemic notably coincided with World War I, exacerbating the tragedy of loss and highlighting the need for understanding such profound neurological conditions.
Encephalitis lethargica, also known as lethargic encephalitis, emerged in the early 20th century, leading to significant death and disability with largely unknown origins.
Patients often developed Parkinson's-like symptoms, personality changes, and movement issues long after the initial outbreak, which hinted at lingering neurological impacts.
#encephalitis-lethargica #pandemic-history #neurological-disorders #mental-health #autoimmune-diseases
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