The Disinfected Mail Study Circle (DMSC)

Pratique, the newsletter of the DMSC
Cumulative Index
Vols. I to XXXVII

Thank you for the reply. The answer seem reasonable and logical. I did wonder if the early use of sulphur could have caused the burnlike marks but that was discontinued before my cover was sent I believe. Kebyf

The disinfection of mail was not an occasional happening, like disaster mail resulting from the sinking of ships or the crash of an aircraft. It was rather the ‘logical’ outcome of a near-universal belief that infectious diseases could be brought into a healthy country by susceptible goods, including paper. This belief, which was still held by many countries until late in the 19th century, was unfounded, in so far as none of the diseases against which disinfection had been practised – plague,…

The disinfection of mail was not an occasional happening, like disaster mail resulting from the sinking of ships or the crash of an aircraft. It was rather the ‘logical’ outcome of a near-universal belief that infectious diseases could be brought into a healthy country by susceptible goods, including paper. This belief, which was still held by many countries until late in the 19th century, was unfounded, in so far as none of the diseases against which disinfection had been practised – plague,…

I am an Infectious Disease Physician with interests in Infection Prevention (including Decontamination and Sterilization) and Public Health.
I’m looking for post cards and health passports dealing with disinfection and immunization, and also like maps.

Dear kebyf, Please open a new thread in the forum. There you can attache files. Kind regards, André

Andre How do I submit a scan? or a photo.

The cover is very fragile but I will try to attach a scan. The date is not clear on the cover. it is certainly pre adhesive . The most readable strike is the Purife one. Also burnt in one corner is Roman numerals IV which is underlined. keby

Dear kebyf,
Is it possible to show a photo of the cover? When was the letter posted?
Kind regards,
André

I have a cover from Smyrna to Marseilles via Malta, where disinfected. The disinfection slits appear to be burnt on. This is the first I have seen. Can members give any more information. Kebyf