How did germ theory change medical practices?

Germ theory revolutionised medical practices by identifying microorganisms as the cause of many diseases, leading to improved hygiene and treatments.

Before germ theory, many people believed that diseases were caused by 'miasma' or 'bad air'. This idea suggested that illnesses were spread by foul smells and poor air quality. However, in the mid-19th century, scientists like Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch began to challenge this belief. Pasteur's experiments showed that microorganisms, or germs, were responsible for causing diseases. Koch furthered this by identifying specific bacteria that caused diseases like tuberculosis and cholera.

The acceptance of germ theory had a profound impact on medical practices. One of the most significant changes was the emphasis on hygiene. Hospitals and doctors began to understand the importance of sterilising equipment and maintaining clean environments to prevent infections. This led to the development of antiseptics by Joseph Lister, which drastically reduced the number of infections and deaths during surgeries.

Vaccination also saw major advancements due to germ theory. Pasteur developed vaccines for diseases such as rabies and anthrax by using weakened forms of the bacteria. This method of preventing disease became a cornerstone of public health and has saved countless lives.

Public health policies were also transformed. Governments started to implement measures to improve sanitation, such as clean water supplies and proper sewage systems, to reduce the spread of diseases. These changes significantly lowered the incidence of infectious diseases in many communities.

In summary, germ theory changed the way we understand and treat diseases, leading to better hygiene practices, the development of vaccines, and improved public health measures. This scientific breakthrough has had a lasting impact on medicine and continues to influence how we combat diseases today.