Human-Insect Connection

Human-Insect Connection

When viewing the yellow fever epidemic during the building of the Panama Canal from the perspective of the innovations in entomology, technology and society that the tragedy led to, there are several examples. Regarding entomology, the yellow fever epidemic was a turning point of the field of entomology in the US and France. When France abandoned the project due to the massive loss of their workers to the illness, the US found the origin of the disease, the yellow fever mosquito. This was a large success for the field of entomology in the US and brought the topic to society's attention. Because of this discovery, research regarding insect disease transfer was then coined with a seal of importance. The connection between the critical issue and technology is lacking. France and the US struggled to find ways to avoid and treat yellow fever using technology like medication, architectural advances to speed up the building process, and sanitation. The lack of innovation in terms of technology to help avoid yellow fever ultimately ended in France’s failure to complete the project. Although the US was able to complete the project, not much innovation was done on their part. They used intense sanitation practices like pesticides and insecticides to kill off the mosquitoes (Tropical Diseases and the Construction of the Panama Canal, 1904-1914 2020). When looking at the effects on society, the building of the Panama canal opened up many different opportunities for trade and travel. The completion of the massive project also gave the US confidence and prestige. The yellow fever also brought attention to the world of entomology and importance of caution regarding infected insects. 

The yellow fever epidemic during the building of the Panama Canal had a heavy impact on society, especially within the US and France. During the building of the Panama canal, 22,000 French workers died due to the insect transferred disease (Tropical Diseases and the Construction of the Panama Canal, 1904-1914 2020). This was considered a major epidemic and heavily affected the society due to mass death and scared citizens. For the US, many citizens were lost during their effort to build the canal, but yellow fever affected society by highlighting entomology and the importance of public health. The US public health system grew exponentially during and after the yellow fever epidemic. Country wide health announcements became popular and useful, Citizens started looking to the public health system for advice and safety. Yellow fever also affected society's perspective on sanitation. Sanitation practices grew and personal protection gained importance. 

The yellow fever epidemic during the building of the Panama Canal caused advancements in US society. The epidemic allowed the normal citizen to learn about the world of entomology, and highlighted the importance of the field. It brought many successful researchers and scientists into the spotlight, and helped fund future entomology related projects. Technology advanced in several places within society including sanitation and public health. Public health gained a larger following by society due to the fear of getting sick, so the system advanced to support the country. Announcements and advice were given all over the country on how to stop the spread of disease, and public health specialists worked with the patients and entomologists in Panama in order to find ways to slow down the spread and potentially find a cure (Minna Stern 2005).