How was the healthcare in Molise in 19th century? Critical and problematic.

The ‘inchiesta murattiana’ (1811-1815) was the first major historical inquiry on the conditions of Southern provinces. The inquiry is the source par excellence for understanding the socio-economic and health status of Molise in the early 1800s.

Lack of hospitals, lack of medical personnel and lack of assistance to the poor: these are the most serious factors that make the health situation in Molise extremely critical. A medical system that was not based on meritocracy.

Finally, there was general reticence towards the smallpox vaccine: in Molise, at the beginning of the 19th century, the practice of the vaccine is viewed with suspicion and fear, mediated by widespread ignorance on the subject and also by superstition.

Brunella Muttillo

Image: Edward Jenner (1749-1823), British physician known for the introduction of the smallpox vaccine.