Science, eh

Journal of Dr. Jesse William Lazear

Camp Lazear, Cuba, 1900

12 September

Reviewed all prior exposures. Hypothesis remains unconfirmed through observation alone. Confirmation of Finlay's vector theory requires deliberate infection. No further delay justified. Therefore, I will subject myself to a controlled bite.

Have not told others. They would undoubtedly object.

Have not told Mabel. Should I recover, it will not matter. Elsewise, this spares her some days of heartache.

I undertake this in the interest of science, and of course my aim and hope is that I should recover.

13 September

Deliberate exposure initiated. Mosquito specimen (Aedes aegypti) allowed to feed on subject's forearm at 09:15 hrs.

Objective: test Finlay's hypothesis; confirm vector transmission of yellow fever

Minor erythema noted at site. No adverse symptoms as yet.

17 September

Febrile onset this morning: 101.3°F. Headache, dorsalgia, photophobia. Textbook progression.

No confessions.

20 September

Fever remitted, albeit briefly. Jaundice visible in sclera. Nausea, myalgias persist.

21 September

More difficult to write, even to hold pen. Find myself thinking of Mabel. Perhaps I should have told her? No. Better she not know. If I do not recover I

22 September

Pain great. Can't (illegible)

24 September

—

[Illegible entry]

Postscript by Dr Walter Reed, M.D., U.S. Army Medical Corps (Major)

Dr. Jesse Lazear died 25 September 1900. His journal confirms deliberate infection with yellow fever via Aedes aegypti. His findings advance our understanding beyond speculation.

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Thank you for reading!

This is a fictionalised account of Dr Jesse William Lazear, who proved the theory that mosquitoes transmit yellow fever... By letting one bite him. He confirmed the theory, but unfortunately he also died.