In ode to the west wind what does Pestilence-stricken multitudes mean?

In "Ode to the West Wind," the phrase "Pestilence-stricken multitudes" refers to groups of people suffering from disease and despair. It symbolizes the widespread suffering and turmoil in society, highlighting themes of decay and the need for renewal. This imagery emphasizes the West Wind's power to both destroy and rejuvenate, reflecting the poet's desire for transformation amidst chaos.