Smallpox meaning

Smallpox was a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the variola virus.


Smallpox definitions

Word backwards xopllams
Part of speech The word "smallpox" is a noun.
Syllabic division small-pox
Plural The plural of smallpox is smallpox. It does not change in the plural form.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) a,o
Consonants (5) s,m,l,p,x

Smallpox is a contagious and sometimes fatal disease caused by the variola virus. It is one of the most devastating diseases known to humanity, with a long history of outbreaks that have had significant impacts on populations around the world.

Smallpox is characterized by a high fever, body aches, and a rash that starts as small red spots and develops into raised bumps filled with fluid. These bumps eventually form crusts and scabs before falling off, leaving pitted scars on the skin.

History of Smallpox

Smallpox has been present for thousands of years and is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt or India. It spread to other regions through trade and military conquests, leading to devastating epidemics in various civilizations throughout history.

Eradication Efforts

In 1980, after a successful global vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization, smallpox was declared eradicated. This marked the first time in history that a human disease was eradicated through vaccination efforts.

Symptoms and Treatment

The symptoms of smallpox typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. There is no specific treatment for smallpox, but vaccination can prevent infection or reduce the severity of the disease if given within a few days of exposure.

Variolation, a practice of inoculating individuals with material from smallpox scabs, was used in some cultures as a form of protection against the disease before the development of the smallpox vaccine.

Overall, the eradication of smallpox stands as a monumental achievement in the field of public health, demonstrating the power of vaccination and coordinated global efforts in controlling infectious diseases.


Smallpox Examples

  1. The smallpox outbreak was finally contained after extensive vaccination efforts.
  2. Smallpox was once a deadly disease that caused widespread death and suffering.
  3. The discovery of the smallpox vaccine was a major breakthrough in medical science.
  4. Many historical figures, including George Washington, contracted smallpox.
  5. Smallpox is caused by the variola virus and is highly contagious.
  6. Efforts to eradicate smallpox worldwide were successful, leading to its elimination in 1980.
  7. Smallpox is characterized by a fever and a distinctive rash with fluid-filled blisters.
  8. The last known case of naturally occurring smallpox was in 1977.
  9. Smallpox has had a significant impact on human history, causing millions of deaths over the centuries.
  10. Scientists continue to study smallpox in order to better understand how to combat similar diseases.


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  • Updated 16/06/2024 - 21:05:43