Cholera

• Who is John Snow?


  John Snow was a physician known for his work in public health.
• What was the significance of the 1875 Public Health Act?


  It acted on improving sewage systems and clean water in cities.
• What were some issues affecting living conditions mentioned in the study material?

  Overcrowding, lack of sewage systems, and lack of clean water supplies.
• How did John Snow contribute to understanding cholera?


  He produced a book in 1849 arguing that cholera spread through water, not "bad" air.
• What significant report did John Snow produce in 1854?


  He linked 500 deaths in Broad Street to a contaminated water pump.
• What was the source of contamination in the Broad Street case?


  A cesspool was leaking into the drinking water.
• What was the limitation of John Snow's findings regarding cholera?


  He couldn't explain the link because Germ Theory was still developing.
• What is cholera?

  Cholera is an infectious and often fatal bacterial disease typically contracted from infected water supplies.
• Who was Edwin Chadwick and what did he do?


  Edwin Chadwick produced reports linking low life expectancy with poor living conditions.
• What did Edwin Chadwick argue for to improve public health?


  He argued for higher taxes to improve sewage systems, refuse collection, and clean water supplies.
• What was the response to Edwin Chadwick's proposals?


  He faced opposition from taxpayers and MPs.
• What event led to the passing of the Public Health Act in 1848?


  The cholera epidemics prompted the passing of the Public Health Act.
• What methods were used to prevent disease before Germ Theory?


  • Common sense and supernatural beliefs
  • Burning tobacco and inhaling vinegar
  • Smoking and praying
  • Using lucky charms
  • Burning clothes and bedding
  • Quarantine measures
• What were some common responses to the threat of cholera before Germ Theory was established?


  Responses included burning tobacco, inhaling vinegar, and using lucky charms.
• What was the common belief about the cause of cholera before Germ Theory?


  It was believed to be caused by "bad" air or miasma.