
3 5 c m
40cm
actual image size: 32cm x 27cm
Description
These vaccination lancets belonged to Edward Jenner (1749-1823). In the 1790s Edward Jenner (1749-1823) used a lancet to introduce fluid from a cowpox sore through a person's skin, in order to inoculate them against smallpox, a similar but more dangerous disease. He called his method 'vaccination', from 'vacca', the Latin word for cow. The 1853 Vaccination Act heralded an era of compulsory vaccination against smallpox.
Image Details
Image Ref.
10287515
© Science Museum / Science & Society Picture Library