‘Semi-third-day fever’ according to special observations and experiments carried out in the southern countries of Russian Empire. Described by Dr. Iog Mart Minderer in 1770–1772

Abstract

The article “Semi-third-day fever” is based on personal experience obtained during the hostilities in the southern regions of the Russian Empire in 1770–1772 by Doctor Ioannes Mart Minderer, Active State Councilor and companion, correspondent of various scientific societies, and member of the Imperial Medical and Surgical Academy. At first glance, the “semi-third-day” fever described by the author looks completely mysterious, but an attentive reader can solve this puzzle based on a detailed description of the course of the disease by days, clinical symptoms, course options, and most importantly, the climatic and geographical characteristics of the area, which is characterized by the spread of this disease, as well as based on own clinical experience and contemporary literature. The logical chain created by the author is of particular note, as it linked together the clinical presentation, geographical, climatic, and social conditions under which the disease considered develops, which is essentially a prelude to the formation of understanding of the role of environmental factors in the development and spread of various infections. Despite the archaic language of presentation, the article is percepted with great interest and is an example of a deep and comprehensive approach to the material analyzed.

Keywords

fever / outbreak / differential diagnostics / malaria / leptospirosis / typhoid fever

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