Smallpox, a highly contagious infectious disease, was notorious for leaving its victims with disfiguring scars. The symptoms of smallpox included fever, vomiting, mouth sores, and a distressing skin rash. While no cure for smallpox existed, a vaccine was available as a preventive measure. The global eradication of smallpox was officially declared in 1980, with the last naturally occurring case recorded in 1977. Despite this success, certain samples of the virus were preserved to aid researchers in gaining further insights into the origins and prevention of this debilitating illness.
Smallpox Causes
The cause of smallpox is a viral infection known as the variola virus. This virus has two variants, namely variola major and variola minor, which are responsible for the spread of the disease. Although the exact origin of smallpox is unknown, experts believe that the virus evolved from another virus that affected African rodents between 68,000 and 16,000 years ago. Research indicates that Variola major likely originated in Asia, while variola minor originated in West Africa at a later period. When smallpox was prevalent, both variants spread rapidly across the world.
How Was Smallpox Spread?
Smallpox, a highly contagious disease, was primarily spread through prolonged and close face-to-face contact between individuals. The transmission occurred when an infected person sneezed, coughed, or even spoke, releasing airborne droplets containing the virus. In addition to direct transmission, smallpox could also be indirectly spread through ventilation systems.
Furthermore, contact with contaminated bedclothes, clothing, and personal items posed a significant risk of contracting the illness. It is important to note, however, that there were rumors suggesting the deliberate use of smallpox as a terrorist attack. Nevertheless, such threats were extremely unlikely and likely served as mere fodder for television dramas.