Dr. Israel Weinstein Smallpox Message

This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Health Commissioner Israel Weinstein provides information on smallpox vaccines and cases.

Context: In March of 1947 a patient who had recently visited Mexico traveled by bus to New York City. He became ill, was hospitalized, and, after his death, found to have had smallpox. A second case and then a third appeared and concern gathered. On April 4, Dr. Weinstein urged all New Yorkers who had not been vaccinated since childhood to receive another vaccination.

Free vaccine clinics were established throughout the city, and doses were given to private physicians for administration. Mayor William O'Dwyer urged all 7.8 million New York residents to receive the vaccine, and he rolled up his sleeve and was vaccinated by Dr. Weinstein. The city swiftly swung into full crisis mode.

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 69299
Municipal archives id: LT428