Kōrero: Epidemics

Inhalers were used during the 1918 influenza pandemic to administer zinc sulfate down the throat. This was a preventative measure and was intended to limit the spread of the disease. This brass and copper inhaler was made by A. & T. Burt of Dunedin in the early 20th century. Smaller inhalers were made in large quantities by the Railways Department during the pandemic.