TED-Ed: How a few scientists transformed the way we think about disease - Tien Nguyen

The video explores the transition from miasma theory to germ theory in understanding disease causation. Initially, diseases were thought to be caused by poisonous vapors, but skepticism arose in the 1840s. Dr. John Snow's investigation during the cholera outbreaks in London provided evidence that contaminated water, not air, spread the disease. Despite resistance, his findings were later validated by Dr. Robert Koch, who identified the cholera bacterium. This shift in understanding, supported by Louis Pasteur's work, revolutionized public health and led to the development of vaccines.

How did Dr. Snow's approach differ from the prevailing miasma theory when presenting his case to officials?

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What was the outcome of Dr. Snow's efforts in relation to the cholera outbreak and how was it later validated?

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