Who usually gets smallpox? Who's at risk, age groups or areas of the world
Smallpox is a highly contagious and severe viral infection caused by the variola virus. Fortunately, smallpox has been eradicated worldwide since 1980, meaning that natural cases of smallpox no longer occur.
Before its eradication, smallpox affected people of all age groups and from all parts of the world. However, certain populations were more vulnerable to the disease and at increased risk of severe illness or death. These included:
1. Unvaccinated individuals: People who had not been vaccinated against smallpox were at a higher risk of contracting the disease.
2. Immunocompromised individuals: Those with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatments or living with certain medical conditions, were more susceptible to severe forms of smallpox.
3. Indigenous populations: Historically, indigenous populations in regions where smallpox had not been previously encountered had little to no natural immunity, making them more vulnerable to the disease.
4. Crowded and unsanitary living conditions: Smallpox tends to spread more easily in crowded areas with poor hygiene practices, such as overcrowded urban slums or refugee camps.
It's important to note that due to global efforts in vaccination and surveillance, smallpox has been eliminated, and routine smallpox vaccines are no longer given to the general population. Therefore, the risk of smallpox does not currently pertain to any specific age groups or areas of the world.