Variola Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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variola
[ˌvɛrɪˈoʊlə ]
Definition
disease name
Variola is the virus that causes smallpox, a highly contagious and deadly disease characterized by fever and a distinctive skin rash. It was responsible for countless epidemics before it was declared eradicated in 1980. There are two forms: variola major, which is more severe, and variola minor, which is less severe.
Examples of usage
- The variola virus was instrumental in the development of the first vaccine.
- After the eradication of variola, public health measures against other diseases improved.
- Symptoms of variola include fever, body aches, and a pustular skin rash.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- Smallpox was responsible for numerous epidemics throughout history, leading to millions of deaths before the invention of vaccinations.
- The first successful vaccine was created by Edward Jenner in 1796 using cowpox to protect against variola.
Science
- Variola major is the more severe form of smallpox, while variola minor caused a milder illness.
- The variola virus is classified as a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes other viruses like cowpox and monkeypox.
Impact on Society
- The global eradication of smallpox in 1980 marked a significant achievement in public health, being the first disease to be eliminated by vaccination.
- Variola's potential as a bioweapon has led to heightened security and monitoring in laboratories handling the virus.
Cultural References
- Smallpox has been referenced in literature, providing insight into societal fears of epidemics and the importance of vaccination efforts.
- There are artworks and historical documents depicting smallpox, illustrating its impact on cultures and communities throughout history.
Origin of 'variola'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'variola' comes from Latin, meaning 'spotted', referring to the marks left on the skin.
- The full name for the disease caused by variola virus is smallpox, which was known in ancient cultures as a dangerous illness.
The term 'variola' comes from the Latin word 'variolae,' meaning 'spotted' or 'pustule,' which aptly describes the characteristic rash seen in smallpox patients. The earliest recorded descriptions of smallpox date back to the 3rd century, with references found in ancient texts and medical treatises. Over centuries, smallpox led to significant mortality and morbidity across populations, prompting the search for prevention methods, including variolation, which involved inoculating healthy individuals with material from smallpox sores. Edward Jenner's work in the late 18th century showcased the successful use of cowpox to protect against variola, leading to the innovation of vaccination. The global effort for eradication culminated in 1980 when the World Health Organization confirmed that variola had been eliminated entirely, marking a significant victory in public health and disease prevention.