Abstract

AbstractObjective.We studied an example of epidemic hysteria occurring outside a closed community and involving fear of being “gassed.” The description presented is that of a previously unrecorded case of epidemic hysteria in the state of Virginia during 1933–1934.Data Sources.data were gathered from contemporary newspaper accounts.Conclusion.The case of the Virginia “gasser” is one in a long series of epidemic hysteria incidents during the 20th century, coinciding with heightened awareness of environmental pollution and triggered by imaginary or exaggerated contamination threats. A recommendation is provided on how physicians should approach such episodes.