On Oct. 20, 1918, Health Commissioner Dr. Max C. Starkloff ordered a restriction of St. Louis business hours, leading to friction between him and the business community. The mandate was then rescinded.

Mayor Kiel, however, under pressure from not only the business community but religious leaders as well, advocated lifting the gathering bans entirely, starting with a two-day trial. As October drew to a close, the number of new influenza cases diminished, though nowhere near the 150 per day mark Starkloff desired.

In fact, Starkloff enacted even stricter measures. Starting on November 2, he placed policemen in department stores and five-and-ten shops to keep crowds moving.