Smallpox is a highly contagious, infectious, deadly disease that is caused by a virus which is usually spread through the air and which enters the body through the mouth or nose. Once inside the body, this virus quickly replicates itself into as many as 10,000 copies. Symptoms of this disease include a series of bumps and rashes filled with a pus-like substance that appear all over the body. If not treated correctly, and if the disease does not prove to be fatal, these pus-filled bumps may become permanent scars. In more serious cases, bleeding underneath the skin can occur which makes the skin appear as if it has been burned.

The word smallpox comes from the Latin word variola which means "spotted". There are two types of smallpox. Variola major is more deadly while variola minor is not as serious. If a person survives variola minor, they could be left with permanent scars and possibly blindness. There have been very few survivors of variola major.

A smallpox epidemic broke out in Pennsylvania in 1860 and ended in 1861.  The origin of this epidemic was unknown; however, there were a several casualties. 

Smallpox patient
Smallpox patient

A smallpox epidemic broke out in Pennsylvania in 160 and ended in 1861.  The origin of this epidemic was unknown; however, there were a several casualties. 

A smallpox epidemic broke out in Pennsylvania in 1860 and ended in 1861. The origin of this epidemic was unknown; however, there were several casualties.

Smallpox bacteria

Only humans are at risk to catch smallpox; animals cannot get this disease.

Did You Know?
Teacher Resources
External Links

Smallpox: Description

Encarta
Libby-genealogy
Skin-care Health-cares

About Us Activities Bibliography Credits Glossary Site Map Standards