An illustration encapsulating treatment of Chinese immigrants suspected of carrying smallpox. Violence against Sydney's Chinese became increasingly popular during the outbreak.
In 1888, an attempt to repeal the Influx of Chinese Restriction Act 1881 was voted down. Strong anti-Chinese sentiments had persisted since the epidemic and this was reflected in parliament.
Officials were meticulous in their efforts to ensure the outbreak was confined to Sydney. Passengers of both ships and trains frequently underwent health checks or were quarantined.