Prevention of epidemics and faith in Fukuyama Castle Town in the early modern period

近世福山城下における防疫と信仰

Abstract
　This paper introduces Prevention of epidemics and faith associated with the spread of infectious diseases in the castle town of Fukuyama in the early modern period.
　Since there are few records before the 18th century, specific measures against infectious diseases are unknown. However, from the 19th century onwards, it was found that preventative measures were taken, such as vaccination with smallpox vaccination established by Goroji Nakagawa and restrictions on movement from nearby epidemic areas. In parallel with epidemic prevention, there was also the practice of praying to gods and buddhas to ward off smallpox and cure illnesses.
　Fukuyama castle town had a population of 7,000 to 10,000 people despite its extremely narrow land. In addition, as a hub for the Kitamae-bune trade, many ships were coming and going, and people came and went briskly.
　Under these conditions, it is not hard to imagine that infectious diseases such as smallpox, measles, and epidemics spread due to droplet infections, airborne infections, and contact infections.