7 Key Takeaways
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1
Genetic analysis reveals paratyphoid fever and relapsing fever in soldiers.
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2
Remains found in Vilnius, linked to Napoleon's retreat.
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3
Identified Salmonella enterica and Borrelia recurrentis.
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4
Historical symptoms include fever, diarrhea, and fatigue.
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5
Previous studies suggested different pathogens.
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6
Small sample size limits definitive disease range assessment.
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7
Ancient DNA analysis aids in understanding historical epidemics.
Research on the remains of soldiers from Napoleon's 1812 Russian retreat has uncovered genetic evidence of paratyphoid fever and relapsing fever, illnesses that likely contributed to the army's significant losses during this perilous campaign. Analyzing ancient DNA from 13 soldiers' teeth found in Vilnius, Lithuania, researchers identified Salmonella enterica (Paratyphi C) and Borrelia recurrentis, revealing how these infections paralleled historical reports of illness among troops. Though previous studies suggested other pathogens, this analysis focused on two specific bacteria, emphasizing that fatigue, malnutrition, and exposure compounded their impact.
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