Ancient Diseases: Malaria Killed Millions In Roman Empire, Centuries-Old DNA In Teeth Confirms
Malaria was responsible for killing millions of people in ancient Rome spanning centuries, scientists have determined after examining the DNA from 2,000-year-old human remains, according to a new study. Specifically, researchers tested the DNA from teeth on bodies that are 2,000 years old to reach their conclusion.
The find confirms the infectious disease's existence in ancient times and puts an approximate age on the scourge, according to Phys.org.