Bermuda: A Case Study on the Impact of Maritime Introduced Contagions and the Yellow Fever Epidemics of the Nineteenth Century

Abstract

Contagion is an unfortunate consequence of conflict and trade. Bermuda's isolation and rich history of maritime commercial and naval activities provides an excellent case study to review the impact of trade on the introduction of disease and the methods developed to combat epidemics. The present research seeks to analyze the impact of maritime activities on disease introduction and the practices developed to mitigate its effects. Through identification and analysis of Bermudian errors in history, contemporary societies can avoid making the same mistakes. Pathogens continue to threaten modern society, and by understanding epidemiology and implementing appropriate safeguards, society is better equipped to deal with future threats.