Hard Drugs The history of vaccines
10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 Journey through the perilous origins of vaccines, from smallpox to rabies, and discover how trial and error transformed gruesome practices into lifesaving immunization. Learn about Edward Jenner's cowpox breakthrough and the controversial arm-to-arm transfer method. Delve into the groundbreaking work of Pasteur and Koch, as they evolved germ theory and established the foundations of modern epidemiology. Explore the rivalry between Salk and Sabin over polio vaccines, culminating in a celebration of the advancements that have saved millions throughout history.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Smallpox Shaped Early Vaccine Urgency
- Smallpox had ~30% mortality and shaped early vaccine urgency and methods.
- People observed natural immunity and used risky variolation well before germ theory explained why.
Replication Beat The Single Eureka
- Jenner's early publication was rejected and he self-published, then iteratively added evidence.
- Science progressed by repeated experiments and convincing replication, not single eureka moments.
Arm‑to‑Arm Spread Brought Hidden Risks
- Early vaccine transfer relied on arm-to-arm passage, which risked transmitting other infections like syphilis.
- Moving to calf-based vaccine farms reduced human contamination risks.
