I am here to help you write an article about the scary reality of smallpox, specifically the difference between Variola Major and Variola Minor. Smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the variola virus. It is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects. Smallpox has been eradicated globally, but it is still important to understand the difference between the two types of smallpox viruses and their potential effects.

Variola Major is the more severe form of smallpox and is associated with a high mortality rate of up to 30 percent. The symptoms of Variola Major include high fever, body aches, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The rash progresses to pus-filled blisters that eventually scab over and fall off, leaving scars. Variola Major can also cause blindness, deafness, and even death.

Variola Minor, on the other hand, is a milder form of smallpox with a mortality rate of less than 1 percent. The symptoms of Variola Minor are similar to Variola Major, but they are less severe. The rash is also less extensive and generally does not cause scarring.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that Variola Major was responsible for the majority of smallpox cases before the disease was eradicated. Variola Minor accounted for less than 5 percent of cases. However, the emergence of Variola Minor in the 20th century highlighted the need for continued vigilance and surveillance.

One of the reasons why Variola Major is more deadly than Variola Minor is the difference in the viral load. Variola Major produces a higher viral load, which can overwhelm the immune system and cause more severe symptoms. In contrast, Variola Minor produces a lower viral load, which allows the immune system to mount a more effective response.

Another factor that contributes to the severity of smallpox is the age and health of the infected person. Infants, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe forms of smallpox, including Variola Major.

The development of a smallpox vaccine was crucial in the eradication of the disease. The vaccine is highly effective and provides long-lasting immunity against smallpox. However, the vaccine can cause serious side effects in some people, including inflammation of the brain and heart. This is one reason why routine smallpox vaccination was discontinued after the disease was eradicated.

In conclusion, smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly disease that has been eradicated globally. However, it is still important to understand the difference between Variola Major and Variola Minor and their potential effects. Variola Major is the more severe form of smallpox, while Variola Minor is a milder form. The viral load and the age and health of the infected person are factors that contribute to the severity of the disease. Vaccination was crucial in eradicating smallpox, but routine vaccination was discontinued due to the potential side effects.