Explain one way in which attempts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the period c1500–c1700 were similar to attempts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the period c1700–c1900. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1

One significant way in which attempts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the periods c1500–c1700 and c1700–c1900 were similar is the implementation of public health measures through legislative actions.

In both periods, authorities recognized the importance of controlling environmental factors to reduce disease transmission. For instance, during the 17th century, the Lord Mayor of London mandated the removal of rubbish from streets to improve sanitation conditions. This initiative aimed to decrease the breeding grounds for diseases like plague by ensuring cleaner living spaces. Similarly, in the 19th century, laws were enacted to improve the disposal of waste and regulate the cleanliness of public spaces to reduce the incidence of cholera and other infectious diseases.

Additionally, both periods saw the establishment of quarantine practices as a method to control outbreaks. During the earlier period, quarantine measures were applied to ships suspected of carrying diseases, limiting the movement of people potentially infected. In the later period, these measures evolved further, where entire neighborhoods could be quarantined to prevent the spread of infections like smallpox.

Thus, the commonality lies in the recognition of public health initiatives that aimed to create a cleaner, safer environment and manage outbreaks effectively.