The Present Method of Inoculating for the Small-Pox: To Which Are Added, Some Experiments, Instituted with a View to Discover the Effects of a Similar Treatment in the Natural Small-Pox

A scientific publication written in the late 18th century. This treatise discusses the practice and principles of inoculation for smallpox, emphasizing its significance as a safer alternative to contracting the disease naturally. Dimsdale details his extensive experience and findings regarding this medical procedure, aiming to improve its efficacy and safety. The opening of the treatise lays the groundwork for Dimsdale's findings by reflecting on his experiences with smallpox inoculation over two decades. He acknowledges the risks associated with the operation, including potential fatalities, yet contrasts this with the high mortality rate of natural smallpox. Dimsdale presents a cautious yet optimistic view of the method, highlighting the significance of patient preparation, the timing of inoculation, and the importance of monitoring the progress of infection. He also introduces a new regimen that involves managing the patients' environment and diet during the inoculation process, suggesting that exposure to fresh air can significantly influence the treatment's outcome. Overall, the beginning of this work presents Dimsdale as a thoughtful and methodical physician aiming to refine the practice of inoculation for the benefit of public health.