Observations addressed to the public in general on the cow-pox : shewing that it originates in scrophula, commonly called the evil; illustrated with cases to prove that it is no security against the small-pox ... To which are added observations on the small-pox inoculation.

  • Squirrell, R. (Robert)
Date:
1805
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Observations addressed to the public in general on the cow-pox : shewing that it originates in scrophula, commonly called the evil; illustrated with cases to prove that it is no security against the small-pox ... To which are added observations on the small-pox inoculation. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    From the beginning of this practice I have been a spectator and reader only, and have, therefore, been enabled to observe the many pranks played upon the health and credulity of the public. It has been observed, and I believe with truth, that a by¬ stander observes as much, if not more of the game, than those who play it. During the time that I was resident apothecary at the small-pox and inoculation hospitals, I had an opportunity of observing the difference between the small-pox, which was caught in the natural way, and that, produced by inoculation ; and the difference was so much in favour of the latter, that 1 consider it to be one of the greatest discoveries, and most beneficial improvements, in the art of medicine. On reading Dr. .Tenner's first account of the origin of the cow-pox, I was struck with such horror and aversion, that I could not as a man of honor, or feel¬ ing, submit to or coincide with vaccination ; and I was very much surprised to find it prosecuted with such energy and zeal, by a person who was capable of giving so accurate and ingenious account of the disease, in its then present state, united with all its dreadful consequences. What, in the name of God ! could have induced him to have introduced a disease of so filthy a nature, and apparently^, ac-\ cording to his own account, such a dangerous ten-