“伍氏口罩”的由来：被忽略的中国贡献

Core Points - The article discusses the historical context and significance of the mask used during the pneumonic plague outbreak in Northeast China in 1910-1911, particularly focusing on the contributions of various medical professionals and the evolution of the mask's design and naming [1][3][25]. Group 1: Historical Context - The pneumonic plague outbreak in Northeast China was one of the largest in modern history, attracting international attention and participation from various foreign medical experts [5][10]. - Arthur Jackson, a British missionary doctor, died from pneumonic plague while working in Fengtian, sparking debates about the effectiveness of the gauze mask used by medical personnel [1][3]. Group 2: Development of the Mask - The gauze mask, referred to as the "Wu mask," was believed to be a new invention by Wu Lien-teh, although it had direct ties to earlier respirators developed in the West [3][4][25]. - The mask was designed to block the transmission of the plague, and its widespread acceptance was facilitated by the urgent need for protective equipment during the outbreak [4][5]. Group 3: Medical Community's Role - Various foreign medical professionals, including American and Japanese doctors, played a significant role in promoting the use of masks during the outbreak, leading to a shift in terminology from "respirator" to "mask" [7][8][10]. - The 1911 International Plague Research Conference in Fengtian highlighted the importance of masks, with many attendees agreeing on their effectiveness in preventing pneumonic plague transmission [10][11]. Group 4: Economic and Practical Considerations - The cost-effectiveness of the gauze mask was emphasized, as it was significantly cheaper to produce compared to other types of masks available at the time, making it more accessible for the local population [12][15]. - The article notes that the gauze mask's design was practical and suited to the economic conditions of China, which contributed to its widespread adoption [12][25]. Group 5: Legacy and Recognition - Despite the contributions of Chinese medical professionals in developing the gauze mask, the credit for its invention was often attributed to foreign doctors, leading to a loss of recognition for local innovations [17][26]. - Wu Lien-teh later claimed to have introduced the mask, which became known as the "Wu mask," but this narrative overshadowed the collective efforts of Chinese doctors in its development [22][26].