Smallpox

Smallpox was one of the most devastating diseases known to humanity. It was declared eradicated in 1980; however, there are concerns that it may be used as a bioweapon.

In the case of an outbreak, all suspected cases should be isolated immediately. Local and regional health authorities and the World Health Organization should be informed immediately, as a single case is considered an outbreak and a global emergency.

Smallpox vaccines and therapeutics are stockpiled in case of an outbreak.

Smallpox was a serious, contagious, and often fatal infectious disease caused by infection with the variola virus. It has not been seen in the US or Europe since the 1950s, and was declared eradicated globally in 1980 following a global immunisation campaign led by the World Health Organization, with the last known natural case reported in Somalia in 1977. Smallpox generally resulted in acute onset of fever and malaise, followed by a distinctive skin rash mainly occurring on the face, arms, and legs. It was mainly transmitted between humans through the respiratory route via saliva droplets; however, transmission from direct contact with infected bodily fluids was also reported.[1]Fenner F, Henderson DA, Arita I, et al. Smallpox and its eradication. Geneva: World Health Organization; 1988. http://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/39485  Smallpox is classified as a hazard group 4 pathogen.[2]Health and Safety Executive, Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens. The approved list of biological agents. July 2021 [internet publication]. https://www.hseni.gov.uk/publications/misc-208-fourth-edition-approved-list-biological-agents