Smallpox was globally eradicated in the 1970s. Any case of smallpox means a bioterrorism event. Blisters (vesicles) develop all at the same stage, in contrast to chickenpox, where lesions are in different forms at the same time. The blisters of smallpox are always at the same stage at the same time.
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Smallpox (Variola)  Information for adults

Picture of Smallpox (Variola): Smallpox was globally eradicated in the 1970s. Any case of smallpox means a bioterrorism event. Blisters (vesicles) develop all at the same stage, in contrast to chickenpox, where lesions are in different forms at the same time. Divider line
Smallpox was globally eradicated in the 1970s. Any case of smallpox means a bioterrorism event. Blisters (vesicles) develop all at the same stage, in contrast to chickenpox, where lesions are in different forms at the same time.
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Overview
Smallpox is a disease caused by the variola virus, a virus that is carried and transmitted only in humans. Through a careful program of vaccination, the variola virus is now completely eradicated. The only variola virus known to exist is stored in two labs: one in Atlanta and one in Moscow.

Smallpox is a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease spread by human contact. It is usually spread by face-to-face contact with an infected person or by contact with the secretions from a patient's rash. There is no certain treatment for smallpox, and the best prevention is immediate vaccination after exposure.

Smallpox is fatal in 30% of cases.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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