Collected Papers on Yellow Fever

The Collected Papers on Yellow Fever represents a foundational archival project undertaken by the Rockefeller Foundation’s International Health Division during the mid-20th century. Compiled to consolidate decades of intensive global research into the etiology, transmission, and prevention of the disease, the volume served as a critical resource for epidemiologists and public health officials tasked with controlling outbreaks in tropical regions. It captures the transition from initial clinical observation to the development of the 17D vaccine, a landmark achievement in medical history.

The design of the collection reflects the academic austerity typical of scientific bulletins published during the post-war era. It was structured to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers, emphasizing clarity and systematic documentation of laboratory findings. Upon its release, it was regarded as an essential compendium for medical libraries and research institutions, valued primarily for its archival rigor rather than aesthetic merit, and it remains a significant primary source for historians studying the intersection of international diplomacy and public health intervention.