Description: The term ‘miasma’ refers to an unhealthy or unpleasant atmosphere, often associated with the presence of diseases. Historically, it was believed that miasmas were harmful vapors emanating from decaying matter, such as corpses or waste, which could cause illness in those who inhaled them. This notion was based on the idea that the air could be contaminated by these emanations, resulting in a harmful environment for health. The concept of miasma was predominant in medicine until the 19th century, when it began to be replaced by the germ theory of disease, which identified microorganisms as the true causes of infections. Despite its obsolescence in modern science, the term ‘miasma’ is still used in environmental contexts to describe conditions of polluted air or environments that may be harmful to public health. In this sense, miasma is associated not only with air quality but also with the perception of an environment that can be unpleasant or dangerous, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy and clean environment to prevent diseases and promote overall well-being.
