Smallpox
What is Smallpox?
Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the Variola major virus. It has been around since at least 3000 BC, making it one of the oldest known diseases. Once a feared disease, it is now eradicated due to an effective vaccine.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of smallpox usually appear about 12 to 14 days after you were exposed to the virus. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Backache
- Extreme tiredness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Severe abdominal pain
- A rash of tiny red spots that progresses to raised bumps “pocks” filled with pus
Complications
Complications of smallpox can include:
- Skin infections
- Infection of internal organs
- Permanent scars
- Blindness
Prevention
The best way to prevent smallpox is through vaccination. The smallpox vaccine is effective in preventing the disease, but is also the only way to protect someone who has already been exposed.
General hygiene practices such as regularly washing your hands and avoiding contact with sick individuals also helps reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Treatment
If you think you may have smallpox, you should seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and further spread of the disease. Treatment may include rest, fluids, fever-reducing medications, and antibiotics to reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections.
Outlook
Smallpox is a contagious and potentially fatal disease. Before the introduction of the smallpox vaccine, it was one of the most feared diseases in the world. Now, thanks to the success of the vaccination program, the world is free of smallpox and transmission of the virus is considered to be practically nonexistent.
