Aetheric Pox

Written by Pookas Kreations

This sickness combines the flu and cold, but is far more aggressive. 
Many believe that the sickness was brought by the Aetherian(species:98d7a224-e827-42f4-b572-0499ef93fe5e) peoples, but mostly the @[High Atlanteans. Oddly this happened centuries after they landed, some think that is was a retaliation for the rebellious acts of their slave races. It could also have been a mutation of a previous benign illness.
Of course, this caused fear and xenophobia, labor shortages, and social unrest; but it also created a sense of unity. Healers from all over had to collaborate to find a cure, many herbalists, mages, and doctors researched night and day.

Transmission & Vectors

This illness has two ways of transmission. It is airborne from coughing, sneezing, and even talking and can pass the contagious droplets for short distances. Indirectly, the virus can linger on surfaces for weeks if not cleaned. 
Closed places, dense populations, and hot temperatures increase transmission rates. Open spaces, sparse populations, and cold temperatures decrease temperatures.

Causes

It was caused by the mutation of the Aetheric Pox.

Symptoms

The symptoms include fevers, extreme fatigue, and a persistent cough that leaves victims in bed for weeks. It is highly contagious and spread rapidly through the population.

Treatment

The healers developed an alchemical antidote that combats the Pox in the body. It disrupts its replication cycle and strengthens the body's immune response.

Prognosis

Long-term weakness, pox can take a significant toll on the body if you survive. Some lingering effects can be lingering fatigue, reduced lung capacity, or a weakened immune system for months after recovery.

Sequela

Long-term weakness, pox can take a significant toll on the body if you survive. Some lingering effects can be lingering fatigue, reduced lung capacity, or a weakened immune system for months after recovery. Survivors are now more susceptible to other infections like pneumonia.

Affected Groups

Almost any humanoid can be affected. Animalfolk, the Fae, Dwarves, and Merfolk seem to be immune, although some of them can be carriers.

Hosts & Carriers

Some animalfolk (mousefolk in particular), can be carriers, but are immune.

Type

Physiological

Parent

Aetherian Flu

Origin

Mutated

Cycle

Short-term

Rarity

Uncommon

Affected Species

• Halfling
• Tree Gnome
• The Travelers
• Aetherian (starborn ancestors of astralus and atlanteans)