What was the common illness in Tudor times?
* Bubonic plague: Also known as the "Black Death", the bubonic plague was a devastating pandemic that swept through Europe in the 14th century and continued to recur in smaller outbreaks throughout the Tudor period. It was caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which was carried by fleas that lived on rats. Symptoms included fever, chills, swelling of the lymph nodes (buboes), and often death.* Smallpox: A highly contagious viral disease, smallpox was characterized by a rash that covered the entire body. It was often fatal, especially in children, and those who survived were often left with permanent scarring.
* Measles: Another common viral disease, measles caused a fever, cough, runny nose, and a red rash. It was often accompanied by complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.
* Scarlet fever: A bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, scarlet fever caused a rash, fever, sore throat, and a red "strawberry" tongue. It was often fatal in children.
* Typhus: A bacterial infection spread by lice, typhus caused a fever, chills, headache, and a rash. It was often fatal, especially in wartime conditions.
* Dysentery: A bacterial infection of the intestines, dysentery caused severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. It was often fatal, especially in children.
* Leprosy: A chronic bacterial infection, leprosy caused skin lesions, nerve damage, and deformities. It was often associated with social stigma and isolation.
* Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection of the lungs, tuberculosis caused a cough, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. It was often fatal, especially if left untreated.