Henry Rose Carter

American physician and epidemiologist

Portrait of Henry Rose Carter

Henry Rose Carter (August 25, 1852 – September 14, 1925) was a prominent American physician and epidemiologist known for his pioneering work in the study of yellow fever and the epidemiology of infectious diseases. His research significantly contributed to the understanding of the transmission and control of yellow fever, particularly in the context of the incubation period of the disease.

Early Life and Education

Henry Rose Carter was born in Albemarle County, Virginia, on August 25, 1852. He pursued his early education in Virginia before attending the University of Virginia, where he studied medicine. Carter graduated with a medical degree in 1873, after which he began his career in the medical field.

Career

Carter initially worked as a physician in rural Virginia, where he gained valuable experience in treating various diseases. In 1880, he joined the United States Marine Hospital Service, which later became the United States Public Health Service. This position marked the beginning of his significant contributions to public health and epidemiology.

Yellow Fever Research

Burials during a yellow fever outbreak

Carter is best known for his work on yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. During his tenure with the Marine Hospital Service, he was stationed in various locations, including New Orleans, where yellow fever outbreaks were common. Carter's meticulous observations and data collection led to the formulation of the "extrinsic incubation period" theory, which posited that the yellow fever virus required a period of incubation within the mosquito before it could be transmitted to humans.

This groundbreaking discovery was crucial in understanding the transmission dynamics of yellow fever and laid the groundwork for subsequent research by other scientists, including Walter Reed and his colleagues, who confirmed the mosquito vector theory.

Later Work and Contributions

In addition to his work on yellow fever, Carter contributed to the study of other infectious diseases, including malaria and typhoid fever. He was involved in public health campaigns aimed at controlling these diseases through sanitation and vector control measures.

Carter's work extended beyond the United States, as he participated in international efforts to control yellow fever in Cuba and other regions. His expertise was sought after by various health organizations, and he became a respected figure in the field of epidemiology.

Personal Life

Carter married Mary Elizabeth "Mollie" Carter, and the couple had several children. Despite his demanding career, Carter was known for his dedication to his family and his community.

Legacy

Orwood School House, a site related to Carter's work

Henry Rose Carter's contributions to the field of epidemiology have had a lasting impact on public health. His research on the incubation period of yellow fever was instrumental in the development of effective control measures and vaccination strategies. Carter's work is remembered as a cornerstone in the history of infectious disease research.

Related Pages

• Yellow fever
• Walter Reed
• Aedes aegypti
• United States Public Health Service