Fight against Typhus in Turkey (1945-1950)

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the struggle against typhus, which has been a scourge of humanity for centuries, in Turkey between 1945 and 1950. Method: The data of our study were obtained from archival documents, periodicals of the period and other studies in the literature. In addition, this study is a qualitative study and document analysis method was used. Findings: The fight against typhus, which became epidemic in Turkey during World War II, became one of the most important issues of the post-war period. In the fight against typhus, vaccination had begun in 1943, during the war years. This practice would be accelerated as of 1945. The vaccine produced in large quantities in a short period of time at the Refik Saydam Institute of Public Health played a significant role in this situation. In addition, the effective use of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (D.D.T.) from 1945 onwards constituted one of the most important factors in achieving success. Conclusion: Thanks to the preventive health measures taken between 1945 and 1950, as well as the strict vaccination program and D.D.T. application, Turkey was able to reduce typhus disease, one of the most feared disasters of those years, from the country's agenda.