The modernity of Achille Sclavo's (1861-1930) message for Italian schools 100 years after the publication of his book “The Propagation of Hygiene”

A hundred years ago, Achille Sclavo (1861-1930) published his book entitled “Per la Propaganda igienica. Scuola e Igiene” (The Propagation of Hygiene. Schools and Hygiene) which he dedicated “To elementary teachers, from whom Italy expects the most effective propaganda in favor of hygiene”. The words of the dedication were profoundly felt by Sclavo and reveal a precise choice by the great hygienist. Sclavo was then at an advanced age and had devoted his whole life to studying hygiene and disseminating its basic concepts, to promote a healthier life for all. Nowadays, Sclavo's book “The Propagation of Hygiene. Schools and Hygiene” still remains an important statement to the commitment of the great hygienist to spreading a culture of hygiene, and public health in Italy. This was a commitment that Sclavo clearly felt throughout his life, as a teacher, as a scholar, as the entrepreneur who founded the Serotherapy and Vaccinogenic Institute in 1904, and mainly as a policymaker who spoke to all citizens, especially young people.