Cholera epidemic of 1837

Abstract

Cholera was diagnosed on the 9 June 1837, at the Ospizio Hospital in Floriana, Malta, in two inmates, who fell ill with vomiting and diarrhoea, by Dr A Axisa. They were investigated and confirmed by Dr L Gravagna (Medica di Polizia) and another physician. By the 13th June twenty seven inmates had been attacked with seventeen fatalities. Because of this the Governor ordered the removal of six hundred and forty five out of seven hundred and fifty inmates of both sexes from the Ospizio to Fort Ricasoli in the hope of arresting the progress of the malady in the isolated and well aerated position occupied by the Fort. In spite of this precaution the epidemic exploded and two doctors who contacted the disease had to go home to be treated. Soon it became impossible to keep order at Ricasoli and insubordination was rampant. Eighteen convicts were discharged from prison on the 18th June to transport and bury the dead, but had to be re-imprisoned because of various contraventions committed by them. Another nine convicts were liberated next day, but they also proved to be unreliable and were re-imprisoned. [excerpt]