Massachusetts smallpox epidemic
Massachusetts Smallpox Epidemic
The Massachusetts Smallpox Epidemic was a significant health crisis that occurred in the 18th century.
Pronunciation
Massachusetts: /ˌmæsəˈtʃuːsɪts/ Smallpox: /ˈsmɔːlpɒks/ Epidemic: /ˌɛpɪˈdɛmɪk/
Etymology
The term "Massachusetts" is derived from the Algonquian Indian language, meaning "at or about the great hill." "Smallpox" is an English term that originated in the 15th century, referring to the pustules that are a characteristic of the disease. "Epidemic" comes from the Greek "epi-", meaning "upon" and "demos", meaning "people."
Definition
The Massachusetts Smallpox Epidemic refers to a widespread outbreak of smallpox, a highly contagious and deadly disease, in the Massachusetts colony during the 18th century.
History
The epidemic began in 1721 and had a profound impact on the colony's population and development. The disease was brought to the colony by individuals infected in other regions, and it spread rapidly due to the close living conditions and lack of immunity among the colonists.
Related Terms
- Smallpox: An infectious disease caused by one of two virus variants, Variola major and Variola minor.
- Epidemic: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
- Vaccination: Treatment with a vaccine to produce immunity against a disease.
- Inoculation: The introduction of a pathogen or antigen into a living organism to stimulate the production of antibodies.
- Variolation: The method first used to immunize an individual against smallpox with material taken from a patient in the hope that a mild, but protective infection would result.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Massachusetts smallpox epidemic
- Wikipedia's article - Massachusetts smallpox epidemic
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