Mallon

Definition

Mallon, commonly known as 'Typhoid Mary,' was an asymptomatic carrier of Salmonella typhi. She unknowingly spread typhoid fever through her work as a cook in the early 1900s.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Mallon was the first identified asymptomatic carrier of Salmonella typhi in the United States.
2. She infected at least 53 people with typhoid fever, resulting in three deaths.
3. Mallon was forcibly quarantined twice by public health authorities and spent nearly three decades in isolation.
4. Her case highlighted the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices in preventing bacterial infections.
5. The term 'Typhoid Mary' is now used to describe someone who unknowingly spreads disease.

Review Questions

• Who was Mary Mallon and why is she significant in microbiology?
• How did Mary Mallon contribute to our understanding of asymptomatic carriers?
• What public health measures were taken to control the spread of typhoid fever by Mary Mallon?

Related terms

Salmonella typhi:

A bacterium that causes typhoid fever, transmitted through contaminated food and water.

Asymptomatic Carrier: An individual who harbors a pathogen but shows no symptoms, yet can still spread the disease.

Quarantine: A period of isolation imposed on individuals or groups to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.