What does the miasmatic theory suggest regarding the cause of illness?

The miasmatic theory suggests that illnesses are caused by "miasmas," or foul-smelling vapors that emanate from decaying organic matter and other unsanitary conditions. This theory was prevalent before the development of the germ theory of disease, which identified microorganisms as the causative agents of infections. According to the miasmatic theory, the belief was that these noxious miasmas could lead to a variety of diseases, particularly in densely populated areas with poor sanitation. Therefore, the correct answer indicates that illness is linked to the presence of evil smells, reflecting the historical perspective on health and disease prior to the germ theory's acceptance.