The story of John Snow and the Broad Street pump is foundational in any basic epidemiology course. An anesthesiologist who became known as the father of epidemiology, John Snow, is credited with discovering the source of the London cholera epidemic of 1854. He solved the mystery by collecting and analyzing the data. A simple intervention helped to stop the spread of cholera, and the people of the Soho district of London lived happily ever after.
OK, I added the “happily ever after” part, but I do remember hearing this story as a public health student. My epidemiology professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health ended the story by telling us about the simple solution that helped put an end to the epidemic. As an educator, I have also shared this story with learners at various levels – from high school students to medical trainees.
A game has even been developed based on this story, in which participants are given the same information that Dr. Snow had. Participants are then asked to work in groups, using the information provided on “clue cards” to determine the source of the epidemic.
The Missing Link
Dr. Snow is credited for determining the source of the cholera outbreak, but he didn’t do it alone. Another person who played a prominent role in this process has been largely overlooked. It’s been over two decades since I first heard the story of John Snow and the Broad Street pump, and I only very recently heard about the Anglican priest who played a significant role in solving the mystery.
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