"THE HUNGERFORD SMALLPOX EPIDEMIC OF 1884" ~ Tweed
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Weathervane
N 44° 28.520 W 077° 18.657
18T E 316206 N 4927266
This plaque describes how the Provincial Board of Health and its hired officers dealt with a severe smallpox epidemic in Hungerford Township, in 1884.
Waymark Code: WMEFNM
Location: Ontario, Canada
Date Posted: 05/23/2012
Views: 8
The text on the plaque reads as follows:
The viral disease of smallpox - widespread in 19th century Ontario - flared up in a severe epidemic in Hungerford Township in 1884. The outbreak claimed at least 45 lives in 202 reported cases and disrupted economic activity and family life for many more. Local efforts by municipal authorities and private physicians were initially unable to halt the disease, and its wider spread throughout the province seemed likely. The newly established Provincial Board of Health and its hired officers swiftly undertook fumigation, enforced isolation and mass vaccination. The disease was contained, proving the value of public health measures applied consistently under coordinated direction. The Hungerford experience demonstrated the importance of quality vaccine, reliable supplies and skilled vaccinators. The Board's actions in 1884 transformed Ontario's approach to disease control when over 400 local boards of health were formed to assist in the delivery of essential medical services. As a result, Ontario earned an international reputation as an aggressive and innovative public health advocate during the mid-1880s.
Address or location of plaque: 40 Victoria Street North on the grounds of the Tweed and Area Heritage Centre.
Physical location of plaque: Village
"Ontario Plaques" Website for this "Plaque": [Web Link]
A web-site for more details.: [Web Link]
Description of any physical remains at site of "Historical Plaque": There are no physical remains at the site.
This 'Plaque' describes: An 'Event'
Condition of sign: Very Good
Is this a bilingual sign?: Yes !
What is the second/third language?: French
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