Measles was one of the most deadly infectious diseases in history, claiming the lives of millions of people over the centuries. Before the widespread use of vaccination, measles epidemics were a common occurrence, and they had a significant impact on society. The disease was highly contagious and could spread quickly through communities, often affecting children and young adults.
Measles outbreaks were particularly devastating in areas of high population density, such as cities and towns. In the early 1900s, for example, New York City recorded an average of 500 deaths and 150,000 cases of measles each year. The disease was also a major cause of infant mortality, with many babies dying before they reached their first birthday.
The impact of measles was not just limited to the loss of life. The disease often left survivors with long-term health problems, including hearing loss, blindness, and brain damage. In addition, measles epidemics often led to disruptions in society, such as school closures and economic decline.
The introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963 marked a turning point in the fight against the disease. The vaccine was highly effective at preventing infection, and its widespread use led to a dramatic reduction in the number of cases and deaths from measles. Nonetheless, measles remains a significant health threat in some parts of the world, particularly where vaccination rates are low.
The historical impact of measles before the widespread of vaccination in 1963, lead to major epidemics approximately cause every 2 to 3 years causing recorded by the mortality rate mostly children as estimated death each year was 2.6 million.
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