WHO/AFRICAN SERIES / WHO-Spx-Dx-Africa02-MedRes

This series of slides has been prepared to assist health workers in recognizing smallpox. The characteristic features of typical cases are contrasted with those of chickenpox - the disease with which smallpox is most commonly confused.

Smallpox is caused by variola virus. The disease is spread by secretions from the patient's mouth and nose and by material from pocks or scabs. Close contact with the patient or his clothing or bedding is thus required for infection.