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Smallpox

Smallpox

Smallpox is a severe contagious disease caused by the Variola major virus, a double-stranded DNA member of the Poxviridae family.Variola major transmission occurs primarily via inhalation of virus-laden droplets or direct contact with infectious scabs. The incubation period averages approximately seven days, although it may range from 7 to 17 days depending on the inoculum and host factors.Clinically, the prodromal phase is marked by an abrupt onset of high fever, malaise, headache, and myalgia.

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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Vaccinia Reporter Viruses for Quantifying Viral Function at All Stages of Gene Expression

Vaccinia Reporter Viruses for Quantifying Viral Function at All Stages of Gene Expression

Published on: May 15, 2014

Smallpox vaccines for biodefense.

Richard B Kennedy¹, Inna Ovsyannikova, Gregory A Poland

¹Mayo Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN 55905, USA.

|October 20, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Smallpox caused millions of deaths and lasting scars. This review covers licensed smallpox vaccines and explores new vaccine research for poxvirus protection.

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Area of Science:

* Infectious Diseases
* Vaccinology
* Public Health

Background:

* Smallpox, a devastating disease, has impacted human history since antiquity.
* With up to a 30% fatality rate, smallpox caused significant mortality and morbidity.
* An estimated 500 million deaths occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries alone.

Purpose of the Study:

* To review currently licensed smallpox vaccines.
* To discuss ongoing research into next-generation vaccines.
* To address concerns about variola virus as a biological weapon.

Main Methods:

* Literature review of historical data on smallpox impact.
* Analysis of licensed smallpox vaccine efficacy and safety.
* Survey of current research trends in poxvirus vaccine development.

Main Results:

* Smallpox vaccines have historically been effective in controlling outbreaks.
* Next-generation vaccine research focuses on improved safety and broader poxvirus protection.
* Concerns persist regarding the potential misuse of variola virus.

Conclusions:

* Licensed smallpox vaccines remain crucial for public health preparedness.
* Continued research is vital for developing advanced vaccines against poxviruses.
* Addressing biosecurity threats is essential in the post-eradication era.