Griffin, John. The Jennerian Discovery : or Testimonials in favour of the Cow-Pox Inoculation; with a statement of the Nature, Progress and Advantages of that Mild and Permanent Preventive of the Small-Pox. To which are added, Answers to the Objections urged against its Practice. Portsea: Printed and Sold by J. Horsey, 1804. [11649]
Removed, no wrapper, 8 1/4 x 5 1/4 inches; viii., [3]-70 pages, light foxing. Good. Pamphlet.
This rare pamphlet details the groundbreaking discovery of the cowpox inoculation, a pioneering smallpox vaccine developed by Edward Jenner. It includes the compelling endorsement of this treatment by a contemporary preacher, highlighting its early acceptance and recommendation beyond the medical community. This historic document offers expert insights into the origins of vaccination and the societal impact of Jenner's innovation in disease prevention.
Rev. Griffin, in his "advertisement" or preface, says that although medicine is not his profession he had very closely followed the developments of vaccination for the small pox, and that he felt it his duty to recommended it. He also states that the Rev. Rowland Hill, when preaching to his congregation, also recommended the inoculation.
After in introductory recommendation for the vaccine, the sections are first, a description of the work of Dr. Jenner, then Description of the Natural or Causal Cow-Pox; The Signs of Infection, and the Description of the Inoculated Cow-Pox; British Testimonials and Practice; Foreign Testimonials and Practice; Testimonials and Practice of Individuals; The Advantages of Cow-Pock Inoculation; Natural Small-Pox; Inoculated Cow-Pox; Objections Answered
Edward Jenner (1749-1823), b. & d. at Berkeley, Gloucestershire, England. A medical doctor and scientist, Dr. Jenner pioneered the vaccine concept and produced the world's first smallpox vaccine. Jenner's first publication of his discovery was in 1798, only six years previous to Griffin's pamphlet.
Rev. John Griffin (1769-1834). b. Woburn, England. An Independent minister, Griffin was the pastor of a congregation in Portsea, England. He was minister to and author of the Life of Captain James Wilson, who commanded the ship Duff to convey a team of missionaries to Tahiti, Tonga, and the Marquesas islands.
