Childhood and Disease Ecology in the Ancient Mediterranean

Immunity begins to develop in utero and is shaped in early childhood through exposure to parasites, viruses, and bacteria. Exactly how infants and children are exposed to these pathogens is a complex and biosocial process. Referencing examples from the Mediterranean world, we highlight the potential for using One Paleopathology (a retrospective One Health framework) in combination with syndemic theory, DOHaD, and the behavioral immunity hypothesis to explore the disease ecology of childhood. Written, material, and biological evidence illuminates how individual susceptibility is determined by culturally-mediated interactions with adults, other children, and animals in built and natural environments. This perspective encourages integrative thinking across disciplines to better understand the complex interplay of biological, behavioral, and environmental factors shaping this critical period of human development.