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By Jennifer E. Cho, MD, FACOG
Photo credits: Unsplash
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which spread to over 150 countries and significantly impacted millions worldwide, the World Health Organization declared the virus a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. However, pandemics have historically been a recurring challenge. This article explores past global pandemics and the lessons they impart.
The Antonine Plague was the world's first recorded pandemic, brought to Rome by soldiers returning from Iraq with smallpox or measles. The Roman army suffered severe casualties, with up to 2,000 deaths daily. This pandemic highlighted the deadly impact of new diseases on populations with no immunity.
The Black Death emerged from infected rodents and spread to humans via fleas. It affected about one-third of Europe's population and claimed the lives of approximately 100 to 200 million people worldwide. This pandemic led to the practice of isolating the sick and introduced quarantine measures.
This influenza pandemic began in Asia during the summer of 1580 and rapidly spread to Europe and North America. Though exact mortality figures are unknown, over 8,000 deaths were reported in Rome alone, prompting the establishment of early quarantine measures and border controls.
Cholera pandemics, originating from contaminated water in the Bay of Bengal, swept through Europe and Asia along trade routes. These events spurred research into contact tracing, with one notable instance tracing a London outbreak back to a contaminated water pump.
The Spanish Flu infected one-third of the world's population and resulted in over 100 million deaths. This pandemic underscored changes in public health awareness. Cities that implemented social distancing, canceled public events, and enforced strict quarantine measures saw lower infection rates. For instance, Philadelphia's neglect of public health recommendations led to 4,500 influenza cases following a mass parade, whereas San Francisco's proactive cancellation of public gatherings mitigated the spread.
The mid-20th century was marked by increased global commerce and air travel. Despite advancements in virology and medicine, two significant flu pandemics originating in Hong Kong and China caused over a million deaths worldwide. This period reinforced the necessity of vigilance and appropriate response despite medical advancements.
Today, we are amid another significant pandemic that will be recorded in history. As we strive to learn from the past, it is crucial to practice social distancing, cancel large gatherings, maintain hygiene, and avoid panic while staying at home to ensure mutual safety.
For further information, please refer to World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
