According to the text, what did people believe caused mosquito-borne diseases up until the late-19th century?
A) the miasma theory, which linked diseases to toxic mists and smells from standing water and swamps
B) open wounds and injuries
C) digging in wet soil
D) watermelons, which were grown in swamps and led to a fear that diseases could grow inside of them
According to the text, what did people believe caused mosquito-borne diseases up until the late-19th century?
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The correct answer is A) the miasma theory, which linked diseases to toxic mists and smells from standing water and swamps.
Explanation: Up until the late-19th century, the miasma theory was a prevailing belief that diseases were caused by “bad air” or noxious vapors emanating from decaying organic matter, particularly in areas with stagnant water like swamps. This theory was widely accepted before the development of germ theory, which identified microorganisms as the cause of diseases.