Journal of Infectious Diseases & Preventive Medicine
Open Access

Smallpox

Smallpox was an infectious disease caused by two viruses namely Variola major and Variola minor. The disease was also known as "red plague". The last naturally occurring case of smallpox (Variola minor) was recorded on 26 October 1977.Infection in the skin it initially resulted in a characteristic maculopapular rash and, later as raised fluid-filled blisters.