Smallpox (Variola Virus Infection)
Description
A contagious infection caused by the variola virus. Smallpox can be deadly. Naturally occurring small pox was eradicated in1980 through an aggressive vaccination campaign. The virus still exists in laboratories for investigational purposes.
Symptoms
Fever, fatigue, severe headache, backache, malaise, raised pink rash, pus-filled lesions that become crusty on day 8 or 9, delirium, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive bleeding.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is usually made clinically but confirmed with a laboratory test.
- CBC
- Chem 12
Treatment
There is no cure for small pox. If the vaccination is given within four days of exposure it may prevent the disease. Unfortunately there are no symptoms in the first four days of the disease and treatment must be started based on a history of exposure.
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