A Rockefeller Foundation laboratory: Medical interaction and production of scientific knowledge in international health

Abstract:

The present article analyzes the reception of the Rockefeller Foundation Laboratory in Bahia, between 1928 and 1930, as a driver of interactions between health agents and agents of scientific knowledge construction. Reports, several texts, diaries and correspondence from professionals who worked in the research and control of yellow fever are used as sources, in addition to the journal A Tarde. It is concluded that the presence of the laboratory was of fundamental importance for the production and interpretation of data on mosquitoes, yellow fever and malaria in Salvador and in cities in the countryside of Bahia. The research developed in that space was published as a valuable contribution to the understanding of aspects of yellow fever and, eventually, presented at national events, such as the V Brazilian Congress of Hygiene. In addition, it was possible to observe mistrust and conflicts of interest between Brazilians and North Americans throughout the performance of the international agency in Bahia State.

Keywords:
Rockefeller Foundation; laboratory; international health