Edward Jenner's Inquiry; a bicentenary analysis

Abstract

Edward Jenner's famous Inquiry was published 200 years ago. Probably few now know on what evidence he based his claims but most will be aware that they initiated controversy which to some extent still continues. This paper briefly reviews the Inquiry, analysing its merits and faults. Jenner's claims were based on slender experimental evidence and some of the information presented was incomplete and misleading. However Jenner's role in the introduction of vaccination was seminal and others could only test and extend his ideas. His reputation as the initial promoter of vaccination is justified.