The Malta plague epidemic of 1675 - 1676

Abstract

The plague epidemic in Malta began on the 24th December 1675. A description of how it started is provided. Health precautions were taken, Plague Commissioners were appointed and a tribunal met in the Chancellery twice daily. The virulence of the disease increased rapidly so that even men commissioned to combat the disease contacted the infection and died of it. The number of Public Health Officers and isolation hospitals was doubled, and all suspected houses were closed. Doctors who willingly or through negligence failed to report cases were severely punished. A number of gallows were erected to deal with people who disobeyed orders. To set an example three men were hanged. Further rigorous measures were taken and the plague was proving to be a very heavy burden on the community. The use of Holy Water was prohibited, and gatherings in churches, squares, hotels and streets were made illegal. Meanwhile, Mdina and Gozo remained free from the disease. A table showing the number of deaths in particular cities and villages is provided. In addition, another table showing the number of “illustrious persons” who died of the plague is presented. On the 24th September, 1676 the final disappearance of the plague was publicly celebrated by the firing of guns and the ringing of bells.