Comparative Analysis of Epidemic Response: COVID-19 and Historical Cholera Outbreaks
Overview
This paper compares the COVID-19 epidemic with the 1831 cholera outbreak in the UK, examining similarities in public health responses and precautionary measures. The author argues that while modern scientific advances have significantly improved epidemic response times and evidence-based research methods, further preparedness research is necessary to handle future outbreaks effectively.
What this essay covers
- Introduction to COVID-19 epidemic and comparison with historical cholera pandemic
- Similarities in public health responses and hygiene prevention measures between cholera and COVID-19
- Advancements in scientific research, vaccine development, and laboratory-based evidence since cholera era
- Assessment of remaining gaps in epidemic preparedness and recommendations for future research
Preview
The COVID-19 Epidemic
The COVID-19 epidemic hit the world beginning in December 2019. For slightly over a year now, researchers have not successfully controlled it, although they have developed numerous vaccines. A cholera outbreak hit the UK in 1831 and lasted until the 1860s before it was fully contained (Vachon, 2015). Similar actions have been taken in the prevailing epidemic as those in the cholera pandemic. Like in the cholera case, the COVID-19 epidemic has attracted research to determine the disease's cause and prevention. Additionally, precautional measures were put in place to prevent more spreading. People were advised to maintain great hygiene levels (Papini & Santosuosso, 2017). A similar precaution about cleanliness has been emphasized by health departments in the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We have made several advancements on how to handle epidemics since the outbreak of cholera. Scientific evidence-based research has taken several positive steps. For instance, Dr. Snow conducted several theoretical pieces of research that had no scientific experimental proves. This has changed as laboratory research data backs up every case about the COVID-19 disease (Watkins, 2020). Secondly, it has taken only one year to get a vaccine for the COVID-19. In contrast, it took more than fifteen years to develop a cholera treatment. This indicates excellent advancement in clinical technology.
However, several advancements need to be made. Epidemics do not give a warning of an outbreak to alert us to get ready for it.