List of Diseases

  1. Smallpox
  2. Influenza
  3. Tuberculosis
  4. Hepatitis A
  5. West Nile Virus
  6. Acute Respiratory Syndrome
  7. Mad Cow Disease
  8. Hoof & Mouth Disease

Smallpox

Smallpox has not been an issue in the United States for more than 50 years, but with the threat of terrorism this disease has been thrust to the forefront of public concern and fear. Smallpox is a serious, contagious, and sometimes fatal infectious disease. There is no specific treatment for smallpox, and the only prevention is vaccination. The name smallpox is derived from the Latin word for “spotted” and refers to the raised bumps that appear on the face and body of an infected person.

Types of Smallpox

There are two clinical forms of smallpox. Variola major is the severe and most common form of smallpox, with a more extensive rash and higher fever. There are four types of variola major smallpox: ordinary (the most frequent type, accounting for 90% or more of cases); modified (mild and occurring in previously vaccinated persons); flat; and hemorrhagic (both rare and very severe). Historically, variola major has an overall fatality rate of about 30%; however, flat and hemorrhagic smallpox usually are fatal. Variola minor is a less common presentation of smallpox, and a much less severe disease, with death rates historically of 1% or less.