1907/1909 Was there an epidemic?

[aceofspades]

As the heading says, really. I have found 4 of my ancestors died at a very young age between 1907 and 1909. Two were sisters aged 13 and 15 who both died in the same quarter in 1908. Their brother died aged 22yrs in 1907. Their mother also died soon after in 1909. I was just wondering if there was some awful virus that they succumbed to.

[Flattybasher9]

What area are you referring to?

Regards

Malky

[youngtug]

If it was in the UK you could get the death certificates, they should state the cause of death

[larkspur]

My great uncle aged 8 also died in this time frame, in the Isolation Hospital  at the workhouse. I sent for his death certificate. Diptheria.

[Wiggy]

TB could also be considered. 

As YT says - get the death certificates and you will know.

Wiggy

[aceofspades]

What area are you referring to?

Regards

Malky

At the time of their deaths they were living at or near Prees, nr whitchurch, shropshire. Thanks for your replies,  the diptheria suggestion is interesting, my mother always had a terrible fear of us getting it,  I'm now wondering if she knew of something about these deaths.

[aceofspades]

TB could also be considered. 

As YT says - get the death certificates and you will know.

Wiggy

Thanks, yes, I think i will get the death certificates,  I've hesitated to do this as I've spent quite a bit on these over the years.

[Wiggy]

Genealogy isn't a cheap hobby is it?   

Anyone who thinks it is is kidding themselves!   

[stanmapstone]

Don't forget certain diseases that were endemic, such as measles, scarlet fever, diphtheria, whooping cough, enteric fever, and tuberculosis,  If a number of members of the same family all died about the same time from a disease, then it was usually due to the very poor living conditions, usually all the family living in one room.

Stan