I've read multiple 19th century novels where someone goes for a walk, gets caught in the rain, comes down with a fever, is nursed, invariably with a wet towel,

I've read multiple 19th century novels where someone goes for a walk, gets caught in the rain, comes down with a fever, is nursed, invariably with a wet towel, and possibly dies. That scenario isnt based on good science, there's no reason why the scenario described in the book should be. I don't know if it's general ignorance, a common plot point, wanting to feel like you should help in a situation where you're powerless. This just seems to be reading far too much into one book it's like someone watching CSI 100 years from now to measure our understanding of DNA.