Vaccination shield, London, England, 1851-1900

Made:
1851-1900 in London
Vaccination shield, child's boxed, made in London, England

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Vaccination shield, child's boxed, made in London, England
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Vaccination shield, child's boxed, made in London, England, probably latter half of 19th century, steel and cotton in card

After vaccination, some people have a severe and quite sore skin reaction that needs to be protected from infection. The vaccination shield with a metal guard and fabric ties was one way to protect the arm. This example is made for a child and is tied above the shoulder and under the arm. The box gives instructions for use and, in an effort to prevent cross infection, warns that the shield should never be shared or re-used.

Details

Category:
Public Health & Hygiene
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A615120
Materials:
steel, cotton and box, card
Measurements:
overall: 32 mm x 94 mm x 70 mm, .01kg
box: 86 mm x 58 mm x 47 mm, .01kg
type:
vaccination shield