The Incredible Story of 'Typhoid Mary' Mallon: How One Woman Changed Medical History
2023-03-29
- Typhoid Mary's identity was revealed to the public - Mary Mallon, better known as “Typhoid Mary,” gained notoriety when her identity was revealed to the public in the early 1900s. She was the first person in the United States to be identified as a healthy carrier of the typhoid bacteria, meaning she was asymptomatic and yet could spread the disease to others.
- Typhoid Mary was a cook - Mary Mallon was a cook who had worked in many households in New York City. She was the source of several typhoid fever outbreaks, infecting at least 53 people and causing 3 deaths.
- Mary Mallon was quarantined - In 1907, Mary Mallon was quarantined by the New York City Health Department and was held in isolation for 3 years. She was later released on the condition that she never work as a cook again.
- Mary Mallon was the first healthy carrier of typhoid identified in the US - Before Mary Mallon, it was believed that only people who were visibly ill could spread the disease. Her case challenged this belief and helped to establish the concept of healthy carriers.
- Typhoid Mary was a controversial figure - Mary Mallon’s story has been the subject of much debate and controversy. Some argue that her civil liberties were violated by the government, while others argue that her quarantining was necessary to protect public health.
- Mary Mallon's legacy still lives on - Mary Mallon’s story has been told in books, articles, and plays, and is still discussed today. Her story has helped to shape our understanding of infectious disease, and has served as a reminder of the importance of public health.
Category: History | Topic: Mary Mallon | @Wikipedia
