Fresh Air Promotes Health

August 4, 2020

The lungs and heart need a constant supply of fresh air for optimum function. 

The H1N1 “Spanish flu” outbreak of 1918 – 1919 killed somewhere between 50 million and 100 million people. This influenza pandemic is notorious because of the high infectivity of the virus and subsequently the number of lives it claimed. Conventional thought is that there was little that could have been done to slow the spread of the virus or to treat its victims. There is evidence to the contrary.

During the pandemic, emergency hospitals were started in schools, halls, and large private houses. Open-air hospitals were thrown-up all over the country. The Massachusetts State Guard built the Camp Brooks Open Air Hospital in Brookline, near Boston. This hospital had 12 tents for patients, one tent for a head nurse and portable buildings for the medical staff and nurses. The treatment at Camp Brooks Hospital took place outside. Staff were told to give the patients a maximum of sunshine and fresh air day and night. Patients were taken out of their tents and put in the sunshine when the weather was good. Hot water bottles and extra blankets kept them warm in bed. They were fed healthy food at regular intervals. A very few medications were given to relieve symptoms. According to one estimate, this regimen reduced the fatality of hospital cases from 40% to about 13%. 

Fresh air is essential in maintaining healthy brain function, growth, and healing. The lungs and heart need a constant supply of fresh air for optimum function. Fresh air prevents the transmission of viruses and bacteria. And, it promotes a healthy immune system. There are a lot of reasons to get outside and get some fresh air and to open up our homes to let the fresh air in!


News

By Isaac Meythaler June 15, 2026
This spring, Yakima Valley Adventurers enjoyed an exciting and educational field trip to learn more about bees, honey production, and polination.
By Isaac Meythaler June 12, 2026
Academy Students were selected by their schools for exemplifying the spirit of the Caring Heart — a willingness to serve others.
By Isaac Meythaler June 11, 2026
The final executive committee meeting for the 2021–2025 term met May 12–13 to reflect on the past, nominate new leaders and prepare for NPUC's 30th constituency session.
By Kimberley Kuzma June 8, 2026
Sale of Rare, Donated Book Illustrates how Generosity Funds Community Outreach at SonBridge Center for Better Living in College Place, WA.
By David Jamieson June 3, 2026
David Jamieson recent exciting events in Upper Columbia Conference.
By Dustin Jones June 1, 2026
After an extensive search, the Upper Columbia Academy board of directors has appointed Twila S. Brown as its new principal starting the 2026-2027 school year.
By Isaac Meythaler June 1, 2026
This spring, members and guests at All Nations Center stepped back into one of the most pivotal religious liberty moments in Adventist history.
By Isaac Meythaler May 28, 2026
Seventy Upper Columbia Conference Teen Pathfinders dedicated their spring break to service, teamwork and spiritual growth during the 2026 Teen Pathfinder Mission Adventure in Northeast Oregon.
By Isaac Meythaler May 19, 2026
On May 9, 2026, Home of Shalom gathered by the Spokane River for the church plant’s first baptism.
By Isaac Meythaler May 5, 2026
When we live out the gospel, it’s attractive. That’s the quiet reality being lived by Pasco Riverview Adventist Church members and their community.