lazaretto

medicine

Also known as: quarantine station

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

A lazaretto is an institution, building, or ship used for those with contagious diseases, often for quarantine purposes. The concept of quarantine, isolating individuals to prevent disease spread, was formalized in Venice in the 14th century. Historically, "lazar houses" were established in the Middle Ages to isolate individuals with infectious diseases like leprosy from the community. While specialized facilities for diseases like tuberculosis and leprosy were once common, advances in medicine have reduced the need for them.123

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quarantine
Early practices
…Venice set up its first lazaretto, or quarantine station, on an island near the city. The Venetian system became the model for other European countries and the basis for widespread quarantine control for several centuries.
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…Venice set up its first lazaretto, or quarantine station, on an island near the city. The Venetian system became the model for other European countries and the basis for widespread quarantine control for several centuries.
Read More