Yellow Fever and Its Discovery

During the Spanish-American War, Yellow Fever caused more deaths than combat. In 1900, Walter Reed led a commission to investigate its transmission, focusing on Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay's theory that mosquitoes were the carriers. Research in Cuba confirmed mosquitoes as the vector, leading to prevention strategies for American troops. For more on bug-borne diseases, visit Health.mil/bugs.

What was a significant cause of death among service members during the Spanish-American War?

• Drowning

• Malnutrition

• Yellow Fever

• Combat injuries

Who was appointed to lead the Yellow Fever Commission in 1900?

• Colonel Theodore Roosevelt

• General William Shafter

• Army Major Walter Reed

• Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay

What theory did Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay propose regarding the transmission of Yellow Fever?

• It was spread through contaminated water

• It was airborne

• It was carried by a common house mosquito

• It was transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals

Where did Walter Reed and his team conduct their research on Yellow Fever?

• Puerto Rico

• Cuba

• Philippines

• Hawaii

What was the outcome of the research conducted by Walter Reed and his team?

• They discovered a vaccine for Yellow Fever

• They confirmed that mosquitoes were the vector for Yellow Fever

• They found that Yellow Fever was not contagious

• They determined that Yellow Fever was caused by bacteria