The History of Measles: Understanding the Past to Protect the Future
Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, has significantly impacted communities worldwide throughout history. Understanding its past sheds light on the importance of vaccination and continued public health efforts.
Early Measles Epidemics
One of the earliest recorded measles epidemics in the American colonies occurred between 1713 and 1714, affecting regions from Boston to Cape Cod. The epidemic reached Cape Cod in June 1714.
Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, the United States experienced frequent and severe outbreaks, with millions of cases reported annually. While specific data on Cape Cod is limited, it’s likely that the region faced challenges similar to those experienced across the country.
Measles Before the Vaccine
Before vaccination became available, measles was a common—and often serious—childhood illness. Outbreaks occurred regularly, with peaks every two to three years. Nearly everyone in the United States would contract measles by adolescence. Each year, measles infected an estimated 3 to 4 million people, resulting in 400 to 500 deaths, 48,000 hospitalizations, and 1,000 cases of encephalitis (brain swelling)
While many recovered without lasting effects, complications were common. Pneumonia, ear infections (which could cause permanent hearing loss), and encephalitis were among the most serious risks. Tragically, some cases proved fatal.
The Measles Vaccine and Disease Decline
Public health officials struggled to control outbreaks before a vaccine existed. Efforts such as quarantine measures, school closures, and public awareness campaigns helped reduce transmission but fell short due to the virus’s extreme contagiousness—measles can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room.
In 1963, the development of the first measles vaccine by Dr. John Enders and Dr. Thomas Peebles marked a major breakthrough. By 1968, an improved version of the vaccine was introduced by Maurice Hilleman, which remains the foundation of today’s measles immunization. Widespread vaccination efforts dramatically reduced cases. By the late 1970s, routine childhood immunization campaigns had cut measles infections by over 90%.
In 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the United States, meaning there was no longer continuous disease transmission within the country. This milestone reflected the power of vaccination and public health initiatives.
Resurgence and the Ongoing Threat
Despite elimination in the U.S., measles remains a global threat. Due to declining vaccinationrates in some areas and increased global travel, outbreaks have resurfaced in recent years. In 2015, the United States experienced a significant measles resurgence, demonstrating how rapidly the virus can return if vaccination coverage declines.
Measles on Cape Cod Today
The good news is that we live in a part of the world with high rates of vaccination, and thus far there haven’t been any recent cases of measles on Cape Cod or the Islands. Regardless, there are people in our region who are either not vaccinated, under vaccinated, or unsure of their immunity. Further, Cape Cod has a large and transient seasonal population; people come from all over the world to experience the beauty of our coastal landscape. It only takes one person with measles to arrive on a plane and expose vulnerable pockets within our community.
Protecting Our Community
The best defense against measles remains the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). For under vaccinated or unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can help reduce the risk of infection or lessen symptoms. PEP options include:
- MMR Vaccine: Given within 72 hours of exposure for healthy, unvaccinated individuals.
- Immune Globulin (IG): Administered within 6 days for individuals unable to receive the vaccine, such as infants under 6 months, pregnant individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.
A Commitment to Prevention
Measles has a long and impactful history on Cape Cod and beyond. By understanding its past and maintaining strong vaccination efforts, we can protect vulnerable populations and prevent future outbreaks. The success of the measles vaccine is a powerful reminder that public health efforts are essential to keeping our communities safe and healthy.
Visit our measles webpage at www.capecod.gov/measles to learn more about measles, how it is spread, how it can be prevented, and up-to-date case information for our region and beyond.
