Smallpox

Smallpox is a highly contagious, often fatal, infectious disease caused by the variola virus. It is characterised by fever and a rash consisting of raised bumps. Historically, smallpox has been one of the most devastating diseases known to humanity, and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide until it was eradicated through vaccination efforts in the late 20th century. After being declared eradicated by the World Health Organisation in 1980, smallpox continues to be studied in order to gain an understanding of how infections spread, and to prepare for the potential use of the virus as a biological weapon. Vaccines against smallpox and treatments for those infected are still being developed today.