Born on August 6
Alexander Fleming's Birthday
A mouldy plate that changed medicine.
Next: August 6, 2027
Where it comes from
Alexander Fleming was born at Lochfield Farm near Darvel, Scotland, on 6 August 1881, and this Story marks his birthday. After four years in a shipping office he trained in medicine at St Mary's in London, where he went on to research and teach.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance. It is a good day to thank the scientists, doctors and nurses whose medicines we take for granted, and to remember Fleming's own advice: antibiotics work best when they are used properly, exactly as prescribed.
Did you know
In 1921, years before penicillin, he discovered lysozyme, an antibacterial enzyme found in tears and saliva.
Read the full story of Alexander Fleming's Birthday
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Leo · July 23 – August 22 · Fire sign
Warm, generous and made for the spotlight.