Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Medical Memoir: The Accidental Development Of The Small Pox Vaccine

Medical Memoir

TN x IshitaWellcome Library, London via Wikimedia Commons Smallpox illustration, Japanese manuscript, c. 1720. (20)

Dr. Edward Jenner finds that vaccination with the cowpox virus can protect a person from smallpox infection and creates a smallpox vaccine

<i>'<span rel="noindex">Medical Memoir</span>' is a Health &amp; Me series where we delve into some of the most intriguing medical history and unveil how medical innovations have evolved overtime. Here, we trace the early stages of all things health, whether a vaccine, a treatment, a pill, or a cure.</i>

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), smallpox was officially eradicated in 1980. The last naturally occurring case was diagnosed in Somalia in 1977. In 1980, the WHO declared it to be eradicates, along with the World Health Assembly, marking it as the first human infectious disease to be eradicated worldwide.

Well, for two reasons. What makes it very special is because it was the only human disease to be eradicated so far, mentions WHO. Secondly, the vaccine that worked for its eradication was developed by accident.

For centuries, smallpox was humanity’s most merciless enemy — wiping out millions without regard for age, status or geography. It struck kings and commoners alike, killing at least one in every three it infected. In its deadliest form, the toll was even worse.

The disease didn’t just kill — it tortured. Victims first faced high fever, relentless vomiting, and painful mouth sores. Then came the hallmark: fluid-filled blisters that erupted across the body like a cruel constellation. Death often followed within two weeks. And for those who lived, the aftermath could be just as cruel — many were left blind, scarred, or infertile for life.

The disease was indeed deadly, it infected Mozart and also Abraham Lincoln.

The worst part? No cure was known. It began as early as in the 1350 BCE, studied in Egyptian mummies. There were practices too in parts of Africa, called variolation, name for smallpox. We also find written accounts from China from the mid-1500s that also describe forms of variolation used in China, where smallpox scabs were dried, ground and blown into the nostril using a pipe. In India, a similar method known as inoculation involved pricking the skin of healthy children with a lancet or needle dipped in material from smallpox pustules. Historical records from the 18th century indicate that this practice had been in use for centuries.

<h4>An Accidental Observation That Saved Lives</h4>

It was not until May 1796, when the world's first smallpox vaccine had been demonstrated, using the same principle as variolation, but with a less dangerous viral source, cowpox.

It was an English physician Edward Jenner who noticed that milkmaids who had contracted cowpox appeared to be protected form smallpox. This led him to hypothesize that cowpox could be used to induce immunity against smallpox. In 1796, Jenner inoculated a young boy, James Phipps, and exposed him to smallpox. He did not develop the disease.

This is how Phipps became the first person in history to be vaccinated against smallpox.

While the experiment, absolutely against today's safety standards, proved the principle of vaccination and marked the very beginning of the chapter that ended smallpox.

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'Medical Memoir' is a Health & Me series where we delve into some of the most intriguing medical history and unveil how medical innovations have evolved overtime. Here, we trace the early stages of all things health, whether a vaccine, a treatment, a pill, or a cure.As per the World Health Organization (WHO), smallpox was officially eradicated in 1980. The last naturally occurring case was diagnosed in Somalia in 1977. In 1980, the WHO declared it to be eradicates, along with the World Health Assembly, marking it as the first human infectious disease to be eradicated worldwide.So, why are we topic about it today?Well, for two reasons. What makes it very special is because it was the only human disease to be eradicated so far, mentions WHO. Secondly, the vaccine that worked for its eradication was developed by accident.A Disease Centuries OldFor centuries, smallpox was humanity’s most merciless enemy — wiping out millions without regard for age, status or geography. It struck kings and commoners alike, killing at least one in every three it infected. In its deadliest form, the toll was even worse.The disease didn’t just kill — it tortured. Victims first faced high fever, relentless vomiting, and painful mouth sores. Then came the hallmark: fluid-filled blisters that erupted across the body like a cruel constellation. Death often followed within two weeks. And for those who lived, the aftermath could be just as cruel — many were left blind, scarred, or infertile for life.The disease was indeed deadly, it infected Mozart and also Abraham Lincoln.The worst part? No cure was known. It began as early as in the 1350 BCE, studied in Egyptian mummies. There were practices too in parts of Africa, called variolation, name for smallpox. We also find written accounts from China from the mid-1500s that also describe forms of variolation used in China, where smallpox scabs were dried, ground and blown into the nostril using a pipe. In India, a similar method known as inoculation involved pricking the skin of healthy children with a lancet or needle dipped in material from smallpox pustules. Historical records from the 18th century indicate that this practice had been in use for centuries.An Accidental Observation That Saved LivesIt was not until May 1796, when the world's first smallpox vaccine had been demonstrated, using the same principle as variolation, but with a less dangerous viral source, cowpox.It was an English physician Edward Jenner who noticed that milkmaids who had contracted cowpox appeared to be protected form smallpox. This led him to hypothesize that cowpox could be used to induce immunity against smallpox. In 1796, Jenner inoculated a young boy, James Phipps, and exposed him to smallpox. He did not develop the disease.This is how Phipps became the first person in history to be vaccinated against smallpox.While the experiment, absolutely against today's safety standards, proved the principle of vaccination and marked the very beginning of the chapter that ended smallpox.

medical memoir: the accidental development of the small pox vaccine

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Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ 

Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. 

<h2>"Pushy Patients" and <span rel="noindex">Viral Infections</span> </h2>

Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: 

<strong><span rel="noindex">Antibiotic resistance</span>: </strong>This makes future <span>bacterial infections</span> harder to treat.

<strong>Gut issues:</strong> Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. 

More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.

Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." 

<h2>When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? </h2>

The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial 

<h4>Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections </h4>

For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. 

<h4>Contagious bacterial infections </h4>

Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. 

In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness.

Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. 

In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. 

<h4>Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients </h4>

Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. 

<h2>Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? </h2>

Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance. 

viral infections

Antibiotics and Viral infections

Do Viral Infections need antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance

When do you need antibiotics

Bacterial infections

Many people have become aware of medicines and what are certain medications used for, however this has led to some patients asking for specific medications from their doctors. They believe they understand better and often push doctors to give them what they think is right. Speaking about her experience with similar patients, Dr Mukherjee posted a video on Instagram calling out ‘pushy patients’ Dr. Bhasha Mukherjee, an NHS doctor, is strongly advising patients to listen to their doctors and rely on science when it comes to getting antibiotics. She wants everyone to understand that her main job is to make people better, not just to give them what they ask for, especially if it's not the right medical treatment. "Pushy Patients" and Viral Infections Dr. Mukherjee has been quite vocal about patients who insist on getting antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold or the flu. She even shared her reasons in an Instagram post called "A pushy patient asks for antibiotics for a viral infection." In it, she clearly explained why she says no to these requests. The main reason is simple: antibiotics don't work against viruses. Using them too much can actually cause serious problems, including: Antibiotic resistance: This makes future bacterial infections harder to treat.Gut issues: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. More harm than good: Unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects without providing any benefit.Dr. Mukherjee's message is clear, "I'm here to heal, not to please – and that means giving you the right treatment, not the requested one. Trust science. Trust your doctor." When Are Antibiotics Appropriate? The NHS confirms that antibiotics are specifically for bacterial infections. They are not effective against viruses. However, there are specific scenarios where antibiotics are necessary and beneficial Non-serious but persistent bacterial infections For ongoing issues such as severe acne, where the bacterial cause won't resolve naturally, antibiotics become necessary. They effectively target and eliminate the stubborn bacteria, leading to clearer skin and preventing long-term discomfort. Contagious bacterial infections Conditions like impetigo or chlamydia, which are easily transmissible to others, require antibiotics. This treatment not only heals the infected individual but also prevents the spread of the bacterial infection within the community, protecting public health. To speed up recovery In specific instances, such as a kidney infection, antibiotics play a crucial role. They quickly combat the bacterial invaders, significantly reducing symptoms and accelerating the patient's recovery, often preventing more severe illness. Risk of serious complications Anti biotics are very important for serious bacterial infections like pneumonia. These diseases can be life-threatening and using antibiotics weakens these bacteria, helping you reduce the risk of the disease escalating. Antibiotic prophylaxis In certain situations, antibiotics are administered as a proactive measure. This preventative approach helps to ward off potential infections before they even start, especially in vulnerable patients undergoing specific medical procedures or with weakened immune systems. Exceptions for Vulnerable Patients Even though antibiotics usually aren't prescribed for viral infections, doctors might consider them for people who are more likely to get very sick from such infections. This includes people over 75, newborn babies (under 72 hours old), individuals with heart failure, those who need insulin for diabetes, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Why Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotic Use? Besides not working on viruses, the NHS points out more reasons why doctors usually don't give antibiotics for viral infections. For one, they won't help you get better any more quickly. Also, taking antibiotics for small problems can make them stop working for more serious illnesses later which means the effectiveness of the medicine goes down. This is a big part of a worldwide issue called antibiotic resistance.  

antibiotics are not the answer! nhs doctor explains why viral infections do not need such medication

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Hearing loss isn't just an inconvenience—it can lead to serious social and emotional consequences. With devices blasting music directly into our ears and constant exposure to urban noise, protecting your hearing is more important than ever. Here's how to keep your ears healthy throughout your life.

<h4>Hearing Loss Isn’t Just for the Elderly</h4>

Many people think hearing problems come with old age. But the truth is, hearing health should be a lifelong priority. Early awareness and care can reduce long-term damage and stigma. Communication is key to our personal and professional lives, and struggling to hear can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and isolation.

While anyone can experience hearing issues, age is a major factor. Over 40% of people over 50 and more than 70% over 70 deal with some degree of hearing loss. Often, it creeps up slowly—people assume others are mumbling or blame background noise. It’s usually loved ones who first notice the issue, pointing out the loud television or constant requests to repeat themselves.

<h4>Noise Exposure Is a Growing Concern</h4>

In earlier decades, occupational noise was the biggest hearing threat. Today, it’s recreational noise—especially headphones and personal devices. Audio technology has improved so much that users can raise the volume dangerously high without noticing distortion. This makes it easier to cause long-term harm to hearing.

<h4>Protect Your Ears in Loud Environments</h4>

Noise above 85 decibels—think concerts, clubs, or power tools—can damage your ears quickly. Earplugs are a simple and effective solution. Special musician-grade options preserve sound quality while reducing volume. Custom earplugs are also available for frequent concertgoers or those in loud work environments.

Personal audio devices should be used with caution. Experts recommend the 50/50 or 60/60 rule: keep volume at 50–60% and limit use to 50–60 minutes at a stretch. Noisy surroundings can tempt you to increase volume—resist the urge. Instead, consider noise-cancelling headphones or moving to a quieter area.

Many people live with undiagnosed hearing loss for years. Fortunately, testing is easier than ever. Quick online hearing checks are available through trusted health organizations. If any issues are detected, follow up with a professional for a detailed evaluation.

If you wake up with severe hearing loss in one ear, or experience repeated infections, seek medical attention promptly. Inflammation in the inner ear can cause lasting damage if left untreated. Sometimes, steroids can help if administered quickly.

Earwax is often misunderstood. Far from being a sign of poor hygiene, it protects and moisturizes the ear canal. Avoid using cotton buds, which can cause irritation or push wax deeper. Let wax exit naturally or have it removed professionally if needed.

Modern hearing aids are discreet, effective, and available through public health services in many areas. They help people stay socially connected, which is essential for mental health and healthy aging.

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Hearing loss isn't just an inconvenience—it can lead to serious social and emotional consequences. With devices blasting music directly into our ears and constant exposure to urban noise, protecting your hearing is more important than ever. Here's how to keep your ears healthy throughout your life.Hearing Loss Isn’t Just for the ElderlyMany people think hearing problems come with old age. But the truth is, hearing health should be a lifelong priority. Early awareness and care can reduce long-term damage and stigma. Communication is key to our personal and professional lives, and struggling to hear can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and isolation.Age and Its Effects on HearingWhile anyone can experience hearing issues, age is a major factor. Over 40% of people over 50 and more than 70% over 70 deal with some degree of hearing loss. Often, it creeps up slowly—people assume others are mumbling or blame background noise. It’s usually loved ones who first notice the issue, pointing out the loud television or constant requests to repeat themselves.Noise Exposure Is a Growing ConcernIn earlier decades, occupational noise was the biggest hearing threat. Today, it’s recreational noise—especially headphones and personal devices. Audio technology has improved so much that users can raise the volume dangerously high without noticing distortion. This makes it easier to cause long-term harm to hearing.Protect Your Ears in Loud EnvironmentsNoise above 85 decibels—think concerts, clubs, or power tools—can damage your ears quickly. Earplugs are a simple and effective solution. Special musician-grade options preserve sound quality while reducing volume. Custom earplugs are also available for frequent concertgoers or those in loud work environments.Use Headphones WiselyPersonal audio devices should be used with caution. Experts recommend the 50/50 or 60/60 rule: keep volume at 50–60% and limit use to 50–60 minutes at a stretch. Noisy surroundings can tempt you to increase volume—resist the urge. Instead, consider noise-cancelling headphones or moving to a quieter area.Get Your Hearing TestedMany people live with undiagnosed hearing loss for years. Fortunately, testing is easier than ever. Quick online hearing checks are available through trusted health organizations. If any issues are detected, follow up with a professional for a detailed evaluation.Don’t Ignore Sudden ChangesIf you wake up with severe hearing loss in one ear, or experience repeated infections, seek medical attention promptly. Inflammation in the inner ear can cause lasting damage if left untreated. Sometimes, steroids can help if administered quickly.Respect the Role of EarwaxEarwax is often misunderstood. Far from being a sign of poor hygiene, it protects and moisturizes the ear canal. Avoid using cotton buds, which can cause irritation or push wax deeper. Let wax exit naturally or have it removed professionally if needed.When to Consider Hearing AidsModern hearing aids are discreet, effective, and available through public health services in many areas. They help people stay socially connected, which is essential for mental health and healthy aging.

never remove ear wax at home, say audiologists, know why

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A chronic and lifelong disease, <span>type 1 diabetes</span> is a condition that causes people to have high levels of sugar in their blood. The MedlinePlus explains that it can occur at any age, to children, adolescents, or young adults. Being diagnosed with it means that one must be on medication for the rest of one's life. However, a new study may have changed that outcome. 

A groundbreaking new stem cell-based treatment may have enabled most patients with severe type 1 <span>diabetes</span> to stop using insulin, according to recent research. The therapy, called zimislecel and developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, involves a single infusion of lab-grown islet cells—specialized cells crucial for blood sugar regulation. 

<h2>Insulin and Type 1 Diabetics Treatment </h2>

Published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the study showed that after a year of receiving the zimislecel infusion, 10 out of 12 study participants no longer needed daily insulin shots. The remaining two patients were able to significantly reduce how much insulin they required. 

Experts described the work as pioneering. He emphasized that being free from insulin can profoundly change a person's life. These encouraging findings were shared at the American Diabetes Association's annual meeting in Chicago. 

<h2>Why Do Type 1 Diabetics Need Insulin? </h2>

The NHS UK explains that our body needs insulin to break down glucose, i.e. sugar, to turn it into energy. People who have type 1 diabetes need insulin devices as their own body cannot produce it. As there is no insulin in their body, their blood glucose level can get really high. 

There are insulin pens as well as other devices that inject insulin safely into one’s body, these devices help you inject the right dose. Other people use insulin pump which gives small amounts of insulin throughout the day. 

The zimislecel therapy uses stem cells that are carefully grown into islet cells in a lab. These engineered cells, which regulate blood sugar, are then put into the patient's body. They settle in the liver and start making insulin, aiming to replace the damaged islet cells that are lost in type 1 diabetes. 

<h2>Addressing a Serious Complication </h2>

Around 2 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, which typically develops in childhood or early adulthood. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the islet cells in the pancreas. Without these cells, the body cannot produce insulin. 

This particular study focused on individuals with a severe type 1 diabetes complication known as hypoglycemic unawareness. These patients cannot tell when their blood sugar is dangerously low. They often miss important warning signs like sweating or shakiness, which can lead to fainting or seizures. Researchers explained that this condition leads to a constant state of worry for patients, always thinking about their glucose levels, what they eat, and when they exercise. 

<h2>Life-Changing Improvements for Patients </h2>

Within months of getting the treatment, patients started needing less insulin. Most were completely off the hormone within six months. Even better, dangerous low blood sugar episodes stopped within the first 90 days. 

This potential medical breakthrough is the result of more than 25 years of committed research. The scientists spent ears testing ways to turn stem cells into islet cells, with an estimated $50 million invested in the research by Harvard and other groups. 

One patient in the trial, Amanda Smith, a 36-year-old nurse in Canada, no longer needed insulin just six months after receiving the treatment. She described it as feeling like a completely new life. 

The cost of the treatment has not been announced yet, as it has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, the researchers believe that for now, this treatment looks promising for patients severely affected by the condition, like those in the study. 

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes stem cell treatment

stem cell treatment

can you cure type 1 diabetes

Diabetes

Curing type 1 diabetes

A chronic and lifelong disease, type 1 diabetes is a condition that causes people to have high levels of sugar in their blood. The MedlinePlus explains that it can occur at any age, to children, adolescents, or young adults. Being diagnosed with it means that one must be on medication for the rest of one's life. However, a new study may have changed that outcome. A groundbreaking new stem cell-based treatment may have enabled most patients with severe type 1 diabetes to stop using insulin, according to recent research. The therapy, called zimislecel and developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, involves a single infusion of lab-grown islet cells—specialized cells crucial for blood sugar regulation. Insulin and Type 1 Diabetics Treatment Published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the study showed that after a year of receiving the zimislecel infusion, 10 out of 12 study participants no longer needed daily insulin shots. The remaining two patients were able to significantly reduce how much insulin they required. Experts described the work as pioneering. He emphasized that being free from insulin can profoundly change a person's life. These encouraging findings were shared at the American Diabetes Association's annual meeting in Chicago. Why Do Type 1 Diabetics Need Insulin? The NHS UK explains that our body needs insulin to break down glucose, i.e. sugar, to turn it into energy. People who have type 1 diabetes need insulin devices as their own body cannot produce it. As there is no insulin in their body, their blood glucose level can get really high. There are insulin pens as well as other devices that inject insulin safely into one’s body, these devices help you inject the right dose. Other people use insulin pump which gives small amounts of insulin throughout the day. How the Treatment Functions The zimislecel therapy uses stem cells that are carefully grown into islet cells in a lab. These engineered cells, which regulate blood sugar, are then put into the patient's body. They settle in the liver and start making insulin, aiming to replace the damaged islet cells that are lost in type 1 diabetes. Addressing a Serious Complication Around 2 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, which typically develops in childhood or early adulthood. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the islet cells in the pancreas. Without these cells, the body cannot produce insulin. This particular study focused on individuals with a severe type 1 diabetes complication known as hypoglycemic unawareness. These patients cannot tell when their blood sugar is dangerously low. They often miss important warning signs like sweating or shakiness, which can lead to fainting or seizures. Researchers explained that this condition leads to a constant state of worry for patients, always thinking about their glucose levels, what they eat, and when they exercise. Life-Changing Improvements for Patients Within months of getting the treatment, patients started needing less insulin. Most were completely off the hormone within six months. Even better, dangerous low blood sugar episodes stopped within the first 90 days. This potential medical breakthrough is the result of more than 25 years of committed research. The scientists spent ears testing ways to turn stem cells into islet cells, with an estimated $50 million invested in the research by Harvard and other groups. One patient in the trial, Amanda Smith, a 36-year-old nurse in Canada, no longer needed insulin just six months after receiving the treatment. She described it as feeling like a completely new life. The cost of the treatment has not been announced yet, as it has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, the researchers believe that for now, this treatment looks promising for patients severely affected by the condition, like those in the study. 

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Medical Memoir: The Accidental Development Of The Small Pox Vaccine

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Type 1 Diabetes Patients May Not Need Insulin To Survive With New Cell Treatment: Study

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World Vitiligo Day- Do You Know Michael Jackson Had Vitiligo And His Death Played A Crucial Role In Spreading Awareness About The Condition?

Health Conditions A-Z

Antibiotics Are Not The Answer! NHS Doctor Explains Why Viral Infections Do Not Need Such Medication

Medical Memoir: The Accidental Development Of The Small Pox Vaccine

Type 1 Diabetes Patients May Not Need Insulin To Survive With New Cell Treatment: Study