The ancient Egyptians were known to have suffered from various infectious diseases such as smallpox, tuberculosis, and leprosy. Despite this, the likelihood of catching a pathogen from an ancient Egyptian mummy is extremely low according to Piers Mitchell, director of the University of Cambridge’s Ancient Parasites Laboratory. Most parasites cannot survive without a living host, and after a few years, they are all dead. Diseases like smallpox, tuberculosis, and leprosy require a living host to survive and cannot be contracted from mummies that have been dead for thousands of years. The degradation of DNA over time also decreases the chances of viable pathogens being present in mummies.
While some parasitic intestinal worms can survive longer than other organisms, they are not a major concern as they also require a living host to thrive. The protective gear worn by researchers studying mummies would prevent the spread of any potential pathogens. In conclusion, the likelihood of contracting an illness from an ancient Egyptian mummy is very low due to the lack of viable parasites and the degradation of DNA over time.
Jennifer Nalewicki, a journalist based in Salt Lake City, covers a wide range of science topics including paleontology, archaeology, and health. Her work has been featured in reputable publications such as The New York Times and Smithsonian Magazine. With a background in journalism from The University of Texas at Austin, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her science reporting.
