Are we Athens or Florence? COVID-19 in historical context. Issue 1 (1st February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Doolittle, Benjamin R
• Is Part Of: Family medicine and community health. Volume 9:Issue 1(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02-01
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- infectious disease medicine -- public health -- healthcare disparities; Family medicine -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Family medicine; Public health; Family Practice; Community Health Services; General Practice; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodical; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/fmch-2020-000811
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2305-6983

Abstract

Abstract : We have been here before. In 430 BCE, a plague struck Athens, killing as much as 25% of the population. In 1347 CE, the bubonic plague afflicted western Europe for 4 years, killing as much as 50% of the population. The plague of Athens led to a collapse of their religion, cultural norms and democracy. In contrast, the bubonic plague led eventually to the Renaissance, a growth of art, science and humanism. As we contend with the COVID-19 global pandemic, will we become Athens or Florence?