What was the common illness in Tudor times?
* 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.