[Mary Mallon, Mr. N and Mr. Koch as well].
Societal attitudes towards disease carriers is not ideal and is often associated with prejudice. This phenomenon was well documented in the era of Robert Koch who was one of the leading scientists claiming that disease carriers might cause epidemics. The authors recount the tale of two salmonella typhi carriers, Mr. N and Mary Mallon, who were responsible for transmitting typhoid. These cases highlight the problematic nature of the subject and the need for an enhanced medical and legal-social treatment model aimed at improving the status of disease carriers and limiting their impact on society.
Rimar
Yossi
Y
Maccabi Healthcare Services, Haifa, Israel. rimmer@netvision.net.il
Shaoul
Ron
R
D002353:Carrier State; D005260:Female; D049672:History, 19th Century; D006801:Humans; D014435:Typhoid Fever / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000266:history / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*