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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Smallpox

Smallpox is a potentially deadly infection caused by the variola virus. The infection causes severe illness, including a high fever, followed by a rash all over the body that looks like blisters.

Smallpox symptoms develop about 12 days after exposure. The disease usually is not contagious until the rash first appears. As scabs form, the chance of passing on the disease decreases.

Smallpox was a worldwide problem in the past. But because of a widespread vaccination program, it was declared eradicated (no longer a naturally occurring disease) by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1980.

There may be a risk that the smallpox virus could be stolen by people in order to threaten or harm others.

Main Street Pediatrics now offers the latest Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine, recommended by the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics for ages 6 months and above. Please call our office to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine visit for your child. For more details read our recent blog post.