The object of prophylaxis is one of considerable moment both to physicians and the public, though it has not been hitherto worked out properly.
Dudgeon remarks “if we can by means of the Homoeopathic principle discover preventives for such diseases as scarletina and cholera morbus, the discovery of medicinal preventives for other diseases of an equally fixed character seems to be feasible. As yet I cannot say that such preventives have been discovered, for it by no means supported by evidence.”…. “The we shall ultimately succeed in discovering more prophylactics for fixed diseases I do not doubt. In the meantime it can be said that we have advanced in this direction beyond the point Hahnemann brought us to.” Now, it cannot be gainsaid what Dudgeon asserts.
Is it not, therefore, our imperative duty to duty the epidemics of cholera more carefully, more scientifically and more patiently with the view of combating it more successfully? “Prevention is better than cure” is better applicable in this dire disease. As physicians trained in the school of Hahnemann, unfettered by any dogmas, and not bound down by any orthodox line of treatment, I think it should be our primary duty to study the Homoeo-prophylaxis of diseases, and more specially of cholera, which every now and again causes so much havoc, alarm and mischief.
To sum up:.
1. Homoeo-prophylaxis is possible, as it has been proved abundantly in many cases.
2. Before selecting any prophylactic medicines, we should study the genus epidemicus.
3. As the type and character of the same epidemic very with its progress, so we shall not rest content with the same prophylactic medicine throughout its course, but change it with the change of the character and type of the epidemic.
4. The action of prophylactic medicines should not be disturbed by irregularity of diet, smell of Camphor and insanitary surroundings.
5. For the success of the prophylactic treatment, observance of general hygienic rules are absolutely necessary.
6. The prophylactic medicines should be administered in as small a dose as possible, and should be repeated at longer intervals.
