Where did Arthur get tuberculosis from?

Where Did Arthur Get Tuberculosis From?

Tuberculosis, or TB, was a major health concern during the late 1800s, and Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) depicts a world where Arthur Morgan contracts the disease. The game’s storyline explores the gritty realities of life during this era, including the high mortality rate and limited medical treatment options. So, where did Arthur get tuberculosis from?

In-game Storyline

In RDR2, Arthur Morgan, the protagonist, is diagnosed with tuberculosis by Dr. Hagerty, a local doctor in Saint Denis. The story takes place in 1899, a time when TB was a significant public health concern. The in-game scenario highlights the struggles of dealing with a contagious and potentially deadly disease, especially when medical treatment was limited and ineffective.

Direct Infection

Arthur contracted tuberculosis through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, specifically Thomas Downes, a farmer he beats up to collect a debt. Blood is mentioned as a possible means of transmission in the article, implying that Arthur may have inhaled or come into contact with Downes’ blood while assaulting him.

Medical Realism

RDR2’s portrayal of tuberculosis is commendable, especially considering the medical understanding and treatment options during the late 1800s. The game’s creators ensured that the disease’s symptoms, progression, and complications were accurately depicted. The tubercular symptoms in RDR2 include coughing, fatigue, and weight loss, all of which are common indicators of TB.

Treatment Options

During the late 1800s, treatment for tuberculosis was largely ineffective. Surgery, including the removal of affected lung tissue, was sometimes used, but the procedure often had serious complications. Phthisis therapy, a treatment that involved isolating patients in special institutions, was also common. However, both methods were often unsuccessful in curing the disease.

The Rise of TB in the United States

TB was a significant public health concern in the United States during the late 1800s. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TB cases increased dramatically between 1860 and 1890, with the highest mortality rate occurring in 1889. New York City, where RDR2’s storyline takes place, was particularly affected, with over 6,000 cases reported in 1890 alone.

The Impact of TB on Society

TB had a profound impact on society, particularly in urban areas like New York City. Mortality rates soared, and society was severely disrupted as families struggled to cope with the loss of loved ones. The disease also contributed to the growth of TB sanatoriums, special institutions designed to treat and isolate patients.

Conclusion

In RDR2, Arthur Morgan contracts tuberculosis through direct contact with an infected person. The game’s portrayal of TB is commendable, showcasing the medical realism of the late 1800s. The rise of TB in the United States, particularly in New York City, highlights the significant impact the disease had on society. Unfortunately, there were limited treatment options available at the time, and Arthur’s fate serves as a poignant reminder of the dire consequences of TB.

Table: Tuberculosis Mortality Rates in the United States (1880-1890)

Sources

• Red Dead Redemption 2 (Video Game)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Journal of Public Health
• Medical history journals