The germ theory applied to the explanation of the phenomena of disease : the specific fevers / by T. Maclagan.

  • Maclagan, T. J. (Thomas John), 1838-1903.
Date:
1876
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: The germ theory applied to the explanation of the phenomena of disease : the specific fevers / by T. Maclagan. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by King’s College London. The original may be consulted at King’s College London.

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    In the early days of the period of incubation these particles exist in comparatively small quantity. They very quickly increase, however; and during1 the last few days of that period must be very abundant. The more abundant they are, the more rapidly will the general mass of the contagium particles increase. Suppose that each produces four others, and that these, in their turn, give rise to as many more ; it is evident that the number of germs will soon be so great that it cannot be quadrupled without causing almost an explosion of disease germs in the system. The advent of this inevitable result, terminates the period of incubation, and ushers in the stage of invasion. From the commencement of this stage to the termination of the disease, the most prominent symptoms which present themselves are those which constitute the febrile state.