[The role of aviation in the epidemiology of smallpox]

The structure and features of the smallpox virus are described and an account is given of the clinical picture of the disease. Tables and graphs are cited to illustrate the progress of the WHO's eradication campaign over the last 10 years. In dealing with part played by the aeroplane in the epidemiology of smallpox, attention is given to the high diffusion potential of the disease owing to increased air travel and the confluence of multi-ethnic and multi-national groups in airports. Prevention should thus be concentrated on airports as opposed to the rest of the country, and both aircrews and ground staff should be vaccinated. Stress indeed is laid on the need for vaccination and the search for further means of preventing its complications.