In "Dragonfly in Amber" by Diana Gabaldon, there is a vivid illustration of how port cities manage the threat of plague. The cited quote highlights a drastic measure taken to prevent the spread of disease, where sailors arriving from infected areas are forced to swim ashore without their clothes. This reflects a time when the fear of contagion dictated harsh and effective methods for maintaining public health.

The mention of "Hollanders" suggests a specific cultural practice, emphasizing the lengths to which people will go to protect themselves from illness. Such actions not only reveal societal attitudes towards disease but also the desperation that can arise in the face of health crises. This blend of historical context and human behavior illustrates the ongoing struggle against infectious diseases and the extreme measures societies may adopt to safeguard their populations.