History

The Medal for Participation in the Cholera Epidemic of 1836 was instituted November, 1 1836. It was conferred upon citizens of Parma for meritorious service during the Cholera Epidemic of 1836.

The medal measures 23mm in diameter and can be comprised of Gold, silver or bronze. The obverse inscription reads "M LUIG ARCID D'AUSTRIA DUCH DI PARM PIAC E GUAST" and depicts female profile, on reverse "AI BENEMERITI DELLA SANITA PUBBLICA NEL 1836."

Between 1826-1849, Europe experienced a drastic Cholera Pandemic which specifically affected Italy in 1836. In most Italian cities, the disease-specific death rates were approximately 38 per 1000 individuals, severely reducing the population. Cholera was eventually identified by epidemiologist Jon Snow in 1854, spurring advancements in disease prevention and control.