War with disease
"We in the Army are probably brought more into direct contact with epidemics of disease, such as that which occurred at Bloemfontein, than are the average civilians. Consequently, we are better able to realize their terrible effects." This statement sets the tone for the informative and practical lectures delivered by Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe in the book. The lectures aim to educate soldiers on the various diseases they may encounter during their service and how to effectively combat them.
In Lecture I, Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe introduces the plan of campaign for fighting diseases, emphasizing the importance of understanding the physiology of the blood and how to maintain its health. He discusses the role of drinking clean water and avoiding contaminated sources, particularly in relation to enteric fever. The lecture also touches on the causes of enteric fever at home and the benefits of anti-enteric inoculation. The overall objective of the lectures is to reduce the death toll from sickness in the army through education and prevention strategies.
Moving on to Lecture II, the focus shifts to tubercular diseases, pneumonia, influenza, smallpox, and venereal diseases. Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe delves into the causes of these diseases and how they can be fought effectively. He stresses the importance of an open-air lifestyle in combating tuberculosis and the significance of prevention strategies for venereal diseases. The lecture also highlights the impact of these diseases on the army and the measures that can be taken to minimize their spread.
In Lecture III, the discussion centers on life in tropical regions and the prevalence of diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and dysentery. Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe explains the role of mosquitoes in transmitting malaria and the methods for combating them. The lecture also touches on other tropical diseases like Malta fever and plague, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and prevention in these environments.
Lecture IV delves into the predisposing causes of disease, the benefits of training, and the importance of maintaining good hygiene in camp settings. Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe discusses the significance of deep breathing, preventing constipation, and using permanganate of potash for health maintenance. The lecture also includes insights from the Russian military medical service and highlights the importance of camp hygiene in preventing the spread of diseases.
In the final lecture, Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe focuses on health and fitness for soldiers, emphasizing the importance of training and precautions against diseases. He discusses the effects of excessive smoking, precautions for foreign service, and prevention strategies for tetanus and sore feet. The lecture concludes with a call to action for soldiers to prioritize their health and well-being in order to effectively combat the invisible foe of disease.
Overall, the book provides a comprehensive and practical guide for soldiers on how to recognize, prevent, and combat various diseases they may encounter during their service. Surgeon-Lieutenant MacCabe's lectures are presented in a clear and straightforward manner, making the information easily understandable and applicable for soldiers at all levels. By arming soldiers with this knowledge, the book aims to reduce the impact of diseases on the army and improve overall health and well-being among military personnel.
Publication date: (1909)
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