Handwritten epidemic mandate Johann Philipp von Gebsattels

The reign of Bamberg's Prince Bishop Johann Philipp von Gebsattel (1599-1609) was marked by repeated epidemics that required government intervention.

An example of this is a handwritten epidemic mandate issued in 1602, in which Gebsattel ordered measures for prevention and therapy, but also to protect the salvation of his subjects' souls. This also included people who could not afford the high costs of medical treatment. A barber was hired to serve as a free point of contact and ensure that all subjects were given medication.