Smallpox
Overview
Smallpox was a serious infectious disease caused by the variola virus, a poxvirus related to mpox. Smallpox outbreaks have occurred for thousands of years, but in 1980 the disease was declared eradicated following worldwide vaccination programs. Although smallpox is no longer causing global illness, high-security laboratories maintain stockpiles of variola viruses, which if lost or stolen and released as a bioweapon, could lead to a public health catastrophe.
Smallpox Disease
Provides references that aid in recognizing disease characteristics and hazards associated with smallpox.
Smallpox as a Bioweapon
Provides information on the use of smallpox as a bioweapon and associated issues to be considered during a smallpox outbreak.
Control
Provides additional guidance specific to various types of workers, and associated issues on recognizing and controlling exposure to smallpox.
Additional Resources
Provides links and references to additional resources related to small pox.