The article discusses the resurgence of measles cases in the U.S., with 712 reported infections this year, surpassing last year's total. Special attention is given to fatalities in unvaccinated individuals, renewing concerns about vaccine hesitancy. Historical context is provided, referencing the prevalence of measles before the vaccine introduction in 1963, where millions were infected annually. Frances Anne Kemble's 1828 account illustrates the widespread nature of the disease, which, despite its dangers, was often viewed as less serious compared to others like scarlet fever and smallpox.
"My will I made last week, while I was in bed with the measles," 18-year-old Frances Anne Kemble recalled in 1828, reflecting on her battle with this once-common illness.
Despite measles infecting millions each year in the 19th century and causing significant mortality, it was considered less alarming than other diseases such as scarlet fever and smallpox.
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