Smallpox: A Primer

Abstract

Smallpox, is a virus that plagued humanity for millennia. It was the first and only disease ever intentionally eradicated from the face of this planet, a scourge defeated in a remarkable, never-before-attempted campaign of generosity and cooperation by the nations of the world. Its eradication was a triumphant symbol of science and dogged persistence winning over nature. Moreover, its eradication was a gift of man to all mankind. Yet, is it possible that the same hand of man, that once rid the scourge of smallpox from the world, will be used to unleash this terror again on its unprotected citizens? This paper, by providing a thorough review of the history, epidemiology, and current risks associated with this dreaded disease, addresses that question and its implications for the American public.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADA446180

Entities

People

  • Brenda J. Mceleney

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Biological Factors
  • Biological Weapons
  • Department Of Defense
  • Diseases And Disorders
  • Health Services
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Lepidoptera
  • Medical Personnel
  • Native Americans
  • Personnel Management
  • Physicians
  • Poxviridae Infections
  • United States
  • Vaccines
  • Virus Diseases
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Educational Psychology
  • Infectious Disease/Epidemiology
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.