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Similarly, in the Victorian age, increased understanding of germs led to a reevaluation of cleanliness and hygiene. Homes transitioned from ornate furniture and wallcoverings to materials like paint and porcelain that are easier to sanitize. Food handling evolved from barrels and communal displays to individually wrapped products, echoing a newfound emphasis on sanitary practices. These historical shifts illustrate how outbreaks reshape societal behaviors, often permanently.