- Smallpox:
One of the most catastrophic pandemics in human history was the smallpox outbreak. Before the Europeans' arrival, it is thought that smallpox had not been present in Australia. Smallpox was transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected people or contaminated objects. It caused symptoms including high fever, rashes, and the formation of pus-filled blisters. Mortality rates during smallpox epidemics could reach up to 50%.
- Measles:
The Measles virus is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected individuals. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red-brown rash. Before vaccination was introduced, Measles was responsible for a significant number of fatalities.
- Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the bacterium "Mycobacterium tuberculosis," which primarily infects the lungs but can also affect other organs. Symptoms include persistent coughing, chest pain, weakness, and weight loss. TB was particularly devastating to Aboriginal communities due to their living conditions and limited access to healthcare.
- Influenza:
The influenza virus causes respiratory infections ranging from mild to severe symptoms, including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches. Influenza epidemics were particularly harmful to Aboriginal populations due to their vulnerable health status.
- Gonorrhea and Syphilis:
These sexually transmitted infections were brought by European settlers. Symptoms of gonorrhea include painful urination and discharge, while syphilis manifests in stages with various symptoms, such as skin lesions and neurological complications.
The high death tolls caused by these diseases, coupled with the disruption of traditional way of life, caused significant declines in Aboriginal populations and profound social, economic, and cultural impacts on Aboriginal communities. As result, these infectious diseases played a significant role in the tragic history of Aboriginal Australians.
