Paper sachet of 'The Soldier's Trench Powder: For the destruction and prevention of body parasites', 1916 (c)

During World War One (1914-1918) washing facilities were very limited in the trenches and sanitation was basic. With so many men living in cramped and unhygienic conditions, parasites like lice thrived. As well as causing itching, the latter also spread trench fever. From 1915 to 1918 between one-fifth and one-third of all British troops reported ill had the disease.

Manufactured by A B Sherren Pharmacists of Hersham, Surrey, this powder was one of many privately purchased treatments used by soldiers to control such pests.

Donated in memory of Mr Victor Gowring