Smallpox Eradication:
a Show of Worldwide Collaborative Brilliance An infectious disease that had plagued humanity for nearly 3000 years
I
nternational scientific collaboration makes use of the collective experiences, knowledge, and intellect of diverse nations. Through shared knowledge and combined efforts, it pioneers breakthroughs unattainable within the confines of solitary endeavors, propelling innovation to unprecedented heights. One clear instance exemplifying the power of international collaboration is demonstrated in the concerted effort of smallpox eradication.
sponse that eventually contributed to the death of 30% of infected individuals. The severity of this disease can be demonstrated by examination of the 20th century alone, in which a minimum estimate of 300 million people died. The global transmission of smallpox is largely attributed to the rapid expansion of international trade throughout the 13th – 18th centuries period during which smallpox became a pandemic and required massive eradication efforts.
Smallpox is an infectious disease that had plagued humanity for nearly 3000 years. It was caused by the variola virus, and clinically manifested as a progressive skin rash to result in overwhelming viremia and a prolonged immune re-
Prior to the 19th century, variolation was the primary method used to control smallpox. This involved inhalation of smallpox scab material by a healthy, uninfected individual in hopes of inducing a mild but protective infection. Although
10 IMMpress Vol. 11 No. 3 2024
