Discovery of Vaccines (Smallpox)
Medicine & Pharmacology
1796
Featured
Discoverers: Edward Jenner
Overview
Demonstration that inoculation with cowpox material provides immunity against smallpox, establishing the principle of vaccination.
Significance
Founded immunology and preventive medicine, ultimately leading to the eradication of smallpox in 1980 — the only human disease ever eradicated.
Methodology
Inoculation of eight-year-old James Phipps with cowpox from milkmaid Sarah Nelmes, followed by challenge exposure to smallpox.
Impact
- Founded the science of immunology
- Led to smallpox eradication in 1980
- Established vaccination as a public health tool