Microscope slide used in research relating to trench fever as transmitted by lice, made by F. Martin Duncan, 1918-19

One of thirteen microscope slides in wooden box, relating to the transmission of trench fever by lice, by F. Martin Duncan, 1918-19. Slide A: '150a' etched onto glass slide.

The slide contains samples of the excreta of lice that had fed on patients with Trench Fever, to investigate incubation periods of B. quintana, the bacterium cause of the illness. Findings like these were crucial in understanding and trying to prevent trench fever through improved sanitation and hygiene.

The slide corresponds with findings published in: The Association of Rickettsia with Trench Fever, J A Arkwright, A Bacot, F Martin Duncan, J Hyg (Lond). 1919 Apr;18(1):76–94.3.