Smallpox Black

Smallpox (lat. variola nigra) is a severe form of smallpox, characterized by a profuse hemorrhagic rash that merges into continuous bruises.

Smallpox occurs when the smallpox virus infects people with weakened immune systems. With this form of smallpox, high fever and severe intoxication are observed. The rash appears on days 2-4 of illness in the form of petechiae and papules, which quickly turn into hemorrhagic blisters and bruises.

A characteristic feature of smallpox is the absence of pus in the rash. The blisters quickly burst, leaving crusty ulcers.

Black smallpox is extremely difficult, the mortality rate reaches 100%. Death occurs on days 5-8 from the development of toxic-hemorrhagic shock and multiple organ failure.

Treatment is usually ineffective due to severe immunodeficiency. Prevention of smallpox consists of vaccination and isolation of patients. This disease practically disappeared after the eradication of smallpox.