1915day.year
Typhoid Mary, the first healthy carrier of disease ever identified in the United States, is put in quarantine for the second time, where she would remain for the rest of her life.
On March 27, 1915, Mary Mallon, known as 'Typhoid Mary', was placed in quarantine for the second time after being identified as an asymptomatic carrier of typhoid fever. She remained isolated for the rest of her life, highlighting early challenges in public health and disease control.
Mary Mallon worked as a cook in New York City when health officials traced multiple typhoid outbreaks to her presence, despite her showing no symptoms. After rigorous investigation, she was confirmed as the first healthy carrier of typhoid fever in the United States. Mallon was first quarantined in 1907 but released under the condition she no longer work in food service. Violating this agreement, she changed her name and continued cooking, leading to further outbreaks. On March 27, 1915, authorities recaptured and quarantined her permanently on North Brother Island. Her case provoked ethical debates over individual rights versus public safety and contributed to the development of modern epidemiological practices.
1915
Typhoid Mary
healthy carrier
quarantine