182 PRACTICE OF PHYSIC. 



have a near communication with the sick, it is proper to let them 

 know, that some of the most powerful contagions do not operate, 

 but when the bodies of men exposed to the contagion are in 

 certain circumstances which render them more liable to be af- 

 fected by it, or when certain causes concur to excite the power 

 of it ; and therefore, by avoiding these circumstances and causes, 

 they may often escape infection. 



DCLXXIX. The bodies of men are especially liable to be 

 affected by contagions, when they are anywise considerably 

 weakened by want of food, and even by a scanty diet, or one 

 of little nourishment ; by intemperance in drinking, which, when 

 jthe stupor of intoxication is over, leaves the body in a weakened 

 state ; by excess in venery ; by great fatigue ; or by any con- 

 siderable evacuation. 



DCLXXX. The causes which, concurring with contagion, 

 render it more certainly active, are cold, fear, and full living. 



The several means, therefore, of avoiding or guarding against 

 the action of cold (XCIV. to XCVI.) are to be carefully 

 studied. 



DCLXXXI. Against fear the mind is to be fortified as well 

 as possible, by inspiring a favourable idea of the power of pre- 

 servative means; by destroying the opinion of the incurable 

 nature of the disease ; by occupying men's minds with business 

 or labour; and by avoiding all objects of fear, as funerals, pass- 

 ing bells, and any notice of the death of particular friends. 



DCLXXXI I. A full diet of animal food increases the irri- 

 tability of the body, and favours the operation of contagion ; 

 and indigestion, whether from the quantity or quality of food, 

 has the same effect. 



DCLXXXI 1 1. Besides giving attention to obviate the se- 

 veral circumstances (DCX. DCLXXIX. to DCLXXXII.) 

 which favour the operation of contagion, it is probable that some 

 means may be employed for strengthening the bodies of men, 

 and thereby enabling them to resist contagion. 



For this purpose, it is probable, that the moderate use of 

 wine, or of spirituous liquors, may have a good effect. 



It is probable also, that exercise, when it can be employed, if 

 so moderate as to be neither heating nor fatiguing to the body, 

 may be employed with advantage. 



