The Pax Romana was a thriving period of Roman dominance, until the Antonine plague struck in 166 AD, becoming the world’s first pandemic. The death toll remains debated, and despite modern analysis, the pathogen remains unidentified. Research on the plague involves historians, archaeologists, scientists, and interdisciplinary experts, unveiling comprehensive insights into ancient pandemics. The plague thrived in a vulnerable Roman Empire facing environmental and economic challenges, eventually contributing to its decline. Similarities between the past and present underline the need to learn from historical pandemics, highlighting the importance of adapting swiftly and collaboratively to mitigate modern-day threats.
https://thebulletin.org/2024/05/a-plague-comes-before-the-fall-lessons-from-roman-history/