One hundred seventy years ago, tuberculosis was a lethal disease. This illness posed a significant threat to humanity, resulting in an estimated 1 billion deaths between 1700 and 1900. Notably, traces of tuberculosis have been found in the mummies of ancient Egyptian kings. In the late 1840s, German botanist Hermann Brehmer, confronted with the fatality of tuberculosis, relocated to the Himalayas in search of fresh air. Remarkably, he survived and is believed to have successfully fought off Mycobacterium tuberculosis in that less favorable environment for bacterial growth. As a result, numerous nursing homes emerged across Europe and the United States, including specialized facilities for tuberculosis care and luxury accommodations for the affluent. However, by the 1940s, many of these nursing homes began closing due to the emergence of antibiotics, which drastically changed their economic viability. Throughout history, it seems that economic value often proves transient. - Joseph’s “j...
Vaccines have allowed people to travel worldwide. Migration and population density are benefits of vaccines. When vaccines failed to curb the epidemic, the “space” ultimately addressed the epidemic. This history is why maintaining “social distance” is essential. Hunting requires one million square meters to secure a person’s livelihood, but urbanization restricts many individuals from accessing such vast spaces. On the other hand, if agriculture can address livelihood needs with just 500 square meters, and its efficiency can increase by 2,000 times, then the perspective on the epidemic reveals insights about civilization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”