Epidemic Belfast

Epidemic Belfast is a medical history learning resource developed by researchers from Ulster University’s School of History. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the team set out to uncover Belfast’s medical past, hoping to gain a better understanding of how disease (physical and mental) has been experienced and managed in the city since the 19th century. Through podcast episodes and original articles, the project furthers our understandings of illness, public health, vaccination, nutrition, mental health, medical provision during the Troubles, thalidomide and many other topics in the unique environment of Belfast. It also looks to the future as Ulster University opened its new medical school in 2021. Among other topics, this resource covers:
- health problems in Belfast including epidemic outbreaks, mental health crises, under-nutrition and poor public health management.
- the role of doctors and local health authorities (positive and negative) in managing disease over time.
- the health prospects and experiences of specific communities such as LGBTQ+, ethnic minorities, women, children and specific occupational groups (e.g. cotton mill workers).
- the complex ethical issues posed by modern medicine (e.g. the development of inadequately tested drugs, anti-vaxxers, etc.)
- barriers to providing ‘neutral’ physical and mental health care during 30 years of civil conflict.