Diagnosis of Smallpox

Clinical Case Definition of Smallpox (19:11)

The clinical case definition of smallpox is described as an illness with an acute onset of fever of 101° Fahrenheit or higher, followed by a rash. The rash is characterized by firm, deep-seated vesicles or pustules in the same state of development without other apparent cause. Isolation of confirmed or suspected smallpox patients is critical to limit exposure to the virus.

This photograph depicts an African child displaying the typical rash distribution of smallpox on his face, chest and arms.

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