Per CDC:
Key points
Smallpox was an infectious disease caused by the variola virus.
Smallpox has been eradicated, with no cases occurring since 1977.
The disease caused rashes and could spread through coughing and sneezing.
Smallpox no longer occurs naturally, but it is possible that variola virus could be used in a biological attack. Although unlikely, public health authorities prepare for the possibility of smallpox being used as a weapon.
Most people with smallpox recovered, but about 3 out of every 10 people with the disease died. Many smallpox survivors have permanent scars over large areas of their body, especially their faces. Some are left blind.
Signs and symptoms
A person with smallpox goes through several stages as the disease progresses, including rash and scabs.
How it spreads
Before smallpox was eradicated, it was mainly spread by direct and fairly prolonged face-to-face contact between people.
Prevention
There are vaccines to protect people from smallpox. Currently, smallpox vaccines are not recommended for the general public because smallpox has been eradicated. If there were a smallpox outbreak, health officials would use smallpox vaccines to control it.
To learn more visit: About Smallpox | Smallpox | CDC
