Smallpox prevention in the Austrian Littoral

Abstract

The article discusses vaccination as the key smallpox prophylaxis, used in the Habsburg provinces from the beginning of the nineteenth century onward. The analysis of quantitative data for the Austrian Littoral (particularly Koper and Trieste) also points to the scope and frequency of smallpox epidemics in the second half of the nineteenth century, which raises questions concerning the extent to which these prophylactic measures were implemented and the population’s willingness to heed the calls for immunization. By creating a regulatory framework, the state sought to attain the maximum possible prevalence of this practice, which nevertheless remained the target of various prejudices for a long time to come. The authorities, the Church, and scientists therefore sought to heighten the popular awareness on the need for immunization through a range of communication channels. Because cowpox vaccination failed to ensure lasting immunity, revaccination was of crucial importance, but its implementation was even more limited.