what us the disease course of smallpox

What are the 6 stages of smallpox?

Signs and SymptomsIncubation Period. This stage can last anywhere from 7 to 19 days (although the average length is 10 to 14 days). ... Initial Symptoms. This stage lasts anywhere from 2 to 4 days. ... Early Rash. ... Pustular Rash and Scabs. ... Scabs Fall Off. ... No Scabs.

What causes smallpox disease in humans?

Smallpox is caused by infection with the variola virus. The virus can be transmitted: Directly from person to person.

When did smallpox start and end?

The origin of smallpox is unknown. The finding of smallpox-like rashes on Egyptian mummies suggests that smallpox has existed for at least 3,000 years. The earliest written description of a disease like smallpox appeared in China in the 4th century CE (Common Era).

What are 3 symptoms of smallpox?

Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the variola virus. It is characterized by fever, a general feeling of ill health (malaise), headaches and back pain. These initial symptoms are followed by a rash and small, raised bumps or lesions (pocks) within two or three days.

Where does smallpox come from?

Smallpox is thought to have originated in India or Egypt at least 3,000 years ago. The earliest evidence for the disease comes from the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses V, who died in 1157 B.C. His mummified remains show telltale pockmarks on his skin.

Is smallpox a skin disease?

Before smallpox was eradicated, it was a serious infectious disease caused by the variola virus. It was contagious—meaning, it spread from one person to another. People who had smallpox had a fever and a distinctive, progressive skin rash.

Is there still smallpox today?

Currently, there is no evidence of naturally occurring smallpox transmission anywhere in the world. Although a worldwide immunization program eradicated smallpox disease decades ago, small quantities of smallpox virus officially still exist in two research laboratories in Atlanta, Georgia, and in Russia.

Can smallpox come back?

Because smallpox no longer occurs naturally, scientists are only concerned that it could reemerge through bioterrorism.

Is there a cure for smallpox?

While some antiviral drugs may help treat smallpox disease, there is no treatment for smallpox that has been tested in people who are sick with the disease and proven effective.

Is smallpox same as chickenpox?

You might be thinking that Smallpox and Chickenpox are the same diseases because they both cause rashes and blisters, and both have “pox” in their names. But in fact, they are entirely different diseases. No one in the last 65 years has have reported being sick of Smallpox across the US.

How long does smallpox last?

It has an incubation period of between 7 and 17 days after exposure and only becomes infectious once the fever develops. A distinctive rash appears two to three days later. The most infectious period is during the first week of illness, although a person with smallpox is still infectious until the last scabs fall off.

What part of the body does smallpox affect?

The virus starts in the lungs. From there, the virus invades the bloodstream and spreads to the skin, intestines, lungs, kidneys, and brain. The virus activity in the skin cells creates a rash that starts as macules (flat, red lesions).

Ordinary Smallpox

Sequelae

Modified-Type Smallpox

Flat-Type (Malignant) Smallpox

Hemorrhagic Smallpox