Practical remarks on hydrophobia (Rabies): publication of Enegolm, Medical Doctor, State Counselor and Chevalier of Russian Empire

Abstract

Rabies, an outdated name for hydrophobia, has been known since ancient times, and even than its occurrence was associated with the bites of dogs and wolves. The only way to prevent the development of this disease was considered to be cauterization of the wound to destroy the poison contained in the saliva of an animal stricken with rabies. The article of the doctor, the actual state councilor Enegolm "Practical remarks on hydrophobia" published in No. 1 of the General Journal of Medical Science for 1811, really contains a detailed description of all the approaches to the treatment of hydrophobia that existed then, although, as the author notes, without any benefit. Nevertheless, even today, in the 21st century, the article is of great interest to doctors, since in the most detailed way, very emotionally, with empathy for the patient, he describes day by day the development of the clinical picture of the disease, forgotten by many modern doctors. The article contains recommendations for preventing the spread of rabies both in urban and rural areas, which does not lose its relevance today, given the problems associated with the widespread growth of the population of stray animals, in particular dogs and cats.

Keywords

Rabies / hydrophobia / Russian Empire / natural history / case report

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