Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, VOLUME 119 | 2024
Perspective
125 years of the plague in Brazil: lessons learnt, historical insights and contemporary challenges
Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Departamento de Microbiologia, Recife, PE, Brasil
The history of the plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, is marked by some of the most devastating pandemics. Its arrival in Brazil on the turn of the 19-20th century led to significant public health challenges and responses. Here, we discuss a comprehensive perspective on the history of the plague in Brazil, emphasising epidemiological trends, public health responses and scientific advances. Understanding the history of the plague in Brazil provides valuable insights into infectious disease control. The study highlights the importance of early detection, robust public health infrastructure, and ongoing research, emphasising the lasting influence of epidemic diseases on society.