Currently, this disease is considered to be eliminated (viruses that cause it are stored in laboratories). The reserve of smallpox viruses (Variola vera) was human. The disease has occurred all over the world. Her last natural case was recorded in 1977 in Somalia. Three years later, WHO announced the eradication of black pox in the world.
A vaccine against black smallpox
The first vaccination against small pox occurred in 1796. Popularity gained in the nineteenth century, which initiated the resolution of the disease from further regions. Modern vaccines began to be used in 1950. Since 1980, the disease is considered practically non-existent.
How did we get infected with black pox?
We are not getting infected right now - but let's listen to how it used to happen. The infection was by inhalation, and also through damaged skin and mucous membranes - in direct contact with patients and the objects used by them. The incubation period is 10 to 12 days, sometimes even 3 weeks. Mortality may be up to 30%.
Attention - possible biological weapons in the hands of terrorists!
In 1993, the genetic sequence of poxvirus was established. This virus may be of interest and pose a high risk if it was used as a biological weapon. The attempts to genetically modify it are particularly dangerous.
Pathomechanism of the disease:
If the infection has taken place by inhalation, the viruses pass through the upper respiratory tract to the peripheral parts, and then to the regional lymph nodes, where viral replication and their rapid development (viraemia) combined with the destruction of host cells, that is our body.
symptomsblack pox
Skin lesions are initially macula and papules, which later transform into bubbles. After some time, they expand, forming multi-chamber blisters, and the body temperature rises again. Appearing sepsis may lead to dissemination of changes to internal organs.
Course of illness
The course of the disease varies from heavy to light. The first symptoms are high temperatures up to 40 ° C, headaches, limbs and throats. After 2-3 days, the fever drops slightly, after the next two - there is a rash with efflorescence on the skin of the face, head, limbs and torso. 15% of patients have symptoms of delirium.
Hemorrhagic black smallpox
In the hemorrhagic form, with a very rapid course, symptoms of severe respiratory failure and encephalitis, as well as pneumonia, are observed, which is caused by secondary bacterial infection. These changes can have a decisive impact on the patient's condition.
Treatment of black pox
In addition to the commonly used vaccine - there is basically no specific, specific treatment method.
Samowyleczenie
In a successful course from the 12th day of the disease, the pustules are drying and the fever falls. In the third week, scabs fall off, leaving characteristic, unsightly scars.
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