Badger
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
This 1930s Soviet medical encyclopedia article describes the badger (Meles taxus) as a predatory mammal inhabiting burrows in forested hilly regions across Europe and the USSR. It details the badger's susceptibility to rabies, anthrax, and amoebic dysentery, as well as its role as a definitive host for the Chinese liver fluke.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
BADGER, Meles taxus, a predatory mammal, lives in burrows in hilly, forested areas throughout Europe and the USSR (except for the extreme north, and central and southern Siberia). It spends the winter in hibernation. It can contract rabies, anthrax, and amoebic dysentery, and also serve as the definitive host for the Chinese liver fluke (Clonorchis sinensis), which commonly parasitizes the human liver (China, Japan). Badger meat is sometimes eaten by hunters, the hide is used for various crafts, and the hair is used for making brushes.
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“Badger.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/badger/