FOX (Dr. J. L.)
Dr. J. L. Fox U.S.N. Theme Feb. 16/43. Medical Topography and Diseases of the Feejee Islands.
SURGEON ON THE WILKES EXPEDITION REPORTS ON TROPICAL DISEASES
This rare discussion of medical ailments on Fiji was possibly composed as part of a medical rating as the manuscript’s heading is in a different hand to Fox’s.
In this manuscript, Fox describes the topography and situation of the Fijians, noting that the only disease “prevalent and peculiar to this group is a scrofulous affection called by the natives ‘Doke.’ The Doke affects children in early infancy, and strangers or foreigners after a few months residence. The principal phenomena consist in disease of the fibrous tissues characterized by Rheumative pains and nodes. Sometimes exfoliates of bone (?) … All the mucous orifices ulcerate, especially the mouth and anus - Large and foul ulcers may be seen on various parts of the body … This disease prevails more extensively than does whooping cough or measles among us, that is, I believe, not five out of a hundred Fijians escape it.” He discusses the history of the disease, remarks on the lack of syphilis and gonorrhea on the island, describes other skin ailments and notes the arrival of influenza the previous year from neighbouring island.
Fox served as assistant surgeon on the USS Vicennes on Charles Wilkes’s US Exploring Expedition, 1838-42. According to Hammersley’s Navy Register, Fox was made assistant surgeon in 1837, surgeon in 1847, and passed away in 1864.
