Early Vaccination Practices

The gruesome origins of variolation are explored, revealing how scabs from recovered smallpox patients were once blown into the noses of healthy children to prevent severe disease. Despite its effectiveness, many were hesitant to adopt this method due to misconceptions about cleanliness. Pioneers like Lady Mary and Cotton challenged these views, paving the way for Edward's groundbreaking smallpox vaccination in 1796, inspired by the immunity observed in milkmaids exposed to cowpox.