smallpox

/ˈsmɔːlpɒks/

nounMedical

Ateş ve püstüllü döküntüye neden olan yüksek bulaşıcı viral hastalık, artık ortadan kaldırılmış

A highly contagious and often fatal viral disease causing fever and a distinctive skin rash with fluid-filled blisters, now eradicated worldwide.

  • Smallpox killed millions of people before vaccination became widespread.
  • The last naturally occurring case of smallpox was recorded in 1977.
  • Scientists debate whether remaining smallpox samples should be destroyed.
  • The successful eradication of smallpox stands as one of public health's greatest achievements, demonstrating the power of coordinated vaccination campaigns.
  • Colonial expansion frequently facilitated smallpox transmission to indigenous populations lacking prior immunity, with devastating demographic consequences.
  • Bioethicists continue debating whether laboratory stocks of smallpox virus should be preserved for research or destroyed permanently.