Karanténa

Karanténa is a term derived from the Italian word "quarantena," meaning forty days. Historically, it referred to a period of isolation for ships and people arriving at port to prevent the spread of disease. This practice originated in Venice during the 14th century, a time when the Black Death was ravaging Europe. Ships arriving from plague-ridden areas were required to anchor offshore for forty days before being allowed to dock and disembark passengers and cargo. This was a significant, albeit rudimentary, public health measure aimed at containing infectious diseases.

The concept of quarantine has evolved over centuries and is now a well-established public health strategy. Modern quarantine involves the restriction of movement of individuals who may have been exposed to an infectious disease, but who are not yet showing symptoms. This is distinct from isolation, which is applied to individuals who are confirmed to be infected and are contagious. Quarantine aims to prevent the potential spread of disease by allowing an incubation period to pass without exposing others. It is often implemented during outbreaks of highly contagious diseases like influenza, Ebola, or during global pandemics. The duration of quarantine is typically based on the known incubation period of the specific pathogen. International organizations like the World Health Organization provide guidelines for quarantine protocols.