Lazaretto

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Lazaretto

Lazaretto (pronunciation: /ˌlæzəˈrɛtoʊ/), also known as a leper colony or quarantine station, is a place set up for the quarantine of people with contagious diseases, especially leprosy and plague. The term originates from the biblical person Lazarus, who was raised from the dead by Jesus and is often associated with the plight of the diseased and outcast.

Etymology

The term "Lazaretto" is derived from the biblical figure Lazarus, who was resurrected by Jesus after four days of being dead. In the Middle Ages, Lazarus became associated with the care and housing of the sick, leading to the use of his name for these quarantine stations.

History

Lazarettos were first used in the 14th century in response to the Black Death. They were used to isolate those infected to prevent the spread of the disease. The first known lazaretto was established by Venice in 1423 on Santa Maria di Nazareth, an island in the Venetian lagoon.

Modern Usage

In modern times, the term "lazaretto" is rarely used, but the concept of quarantine and isolation for disease control remains a critical part of public health systems. The term is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to places or situations of isolation, neglect, or confinement.

Related Terms

  • Quarantine: A state, period, or place of isolation in which people or animals that have arrived from elsewhere or been exposed to infectious or contagious disease are placed.
  • Leprosy: A long-term infectious disease that mainly affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the respiratory tract, and the eyes.
  • Plague: A deadly infectious disease that is caused by the enterobacteria Yersinia pestis, named after the French-Swiss bacteriologist Alexandre Yersin.

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