Pneumonic plague epidemic in Northeast China in 1910–1911: Dr. Wu Lien-Teh’s epidemic preventive system for plague control

Pneumonic plague that originated in Russian Siberia broke out in Northeast China in October 1910–March 1911. On the basis of field visits, autopsy, bacteriological identification, and close collaboration with local authorities and international colleagues, Dr. Wu Lien-Teh implemented a series of efficient antiplague measures, which successfully controlled the development of an extraordinary epidemic plague. In his subsequent work, Dr. Wu demonstrated the respiratory transmission of pneumonic plague and tarbagans’ role in this spread. Dr.Wu’s academic and cultural contributions are valuable in the medical progress in China.