What is Trench Fever

Trench Fever was a highly contagious disease that emerged during World War I. It primarily affected soldiers living in the trenches, hence the name.

Caused by the bacterium Bartonella quintana, Trench Fever was transmitted through body lice, which were prevalent in the unsanitary conditions of the trenches. The disease caused severe flu-like symptoms, including high fever, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue.

Trench Fever had a significant impact on the war, as it could incapacitate soldiers for weeks or even months. The infected soldiers often had to be removed from the front lines, leading to a decrease in manpower and combat effectiveness.

Although Trench Fever was rarely fatal, it posed a major health threat during the war. Efforts were made to control the spread of the disease by delousing soldiers' clothing and improving hygiene in the trenches. However, these measures were often challenging to implement effectively.

After World War I, Trench Fever gradually declined and became less common. Today, it is considered a rare disease, primarily affecting homeless individuals or those living in unsanitary conditions.