Small Pox

Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the Variola virus, which has been responsible for some of the largest disease outbreaks in human history. It is highly contagious, leading to fever, skin rash, and, in some cases, death. It is spread by contact between infected individuals or through contamination of objects. After a successful global vaccination program, the World Health Organization declared in 1980 that smallpox had been completely eradicated from the world. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent smallpox, and its continued use is important for maintaining highly effective immunity.