A terrifying public health crisis overwhelmed the province during the autumn of 1952. Throughout the month of October, a devastating epidemic of the polio virus reached its peak across Saskatchewan.
The highly contagious, crippling disease struck fear into the hearts of parents everywhere.
The viral outbreak left hundreds of local children and young adults paralyzed before a safe vaccine was widely available.
Hospitals were stretched beyond their limits, with special isolation wards packed full of heavy iron lung machines.
Health officials closed public swimming pools and cancelled community events to slow the spread.
The dark October peak of the 1952 epidemic remains one of the most frightening, deeply traumatic medical emergencies of the prairie province.
Learn more about 100 Years of CKRM at 620ckrm.com.
100 Years of Saskatchewan History
This article is part of a series that celebrates both the history of Saskatchewan and the 100th anniversary of one of Saskatchewan's most storied radio stations. For more key moments from the last 100 years, visit the CKRM timeline.
