Causes and risk factors
Small pox is caused by variola virus which has been eradicated long back. This infection spreads through direct and prolonged contact with the infected person. Contact the contaminated body fluids or contaminated objects and surfaces spread the infection. Human beings are the only hosts. Pregnant women and people with weak immune system are more prone for acquiring this infection.
Clinical presentation:
There are two clinical types of small pox- variola major and Variola minor. Variola major is the most severe form causing high grade fever and severe rash. Variola minor presents with less severe complaints and the prevalence is also rare.
The incubation period is from 7-17 days. Appearance of rash is the key symptom of small pox. Initial the person presents with complaints of fever, chills, body ache and headache. The rash appears in form of a small red spots seen initially on tongue and mouth. These small eruptions then break open and develop into sores, which further spreads the rash to other parts of the body. Slowly these eruptions fill up with fluids giving a typical bellybutton appearance which is the characteristic feature of small pox. These pustules (eruptions filled with fluid) by time form crusts which later form scabs which fall off.
Investigations:
The diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and certain physical examination is carried by the doctor. Certain sets of investigations can also be advised which will aid in the confirmation of the disease. Swabs from patient’s nose or throat or sputum are tested. The other tests include the complete blood count, urine routine, stool test and culture examination. X-ray and ultrasonography of abdomen and pelvis can be done. MRI or CT scan can be done to find out the extend of pathology in severe cases.
Treatment:
Isolation of the infected person and other who came in contact with the patient is the first step adopted. Adequate treatment is then started once the diagnosis is confirmed. Medications are started along with intravenous fluids. Antibiotics are given in cases if secondary infection prevails. Rest is important part of treatment. Diet should consist of adequate liquids like milk, fruit juices and hot drinks .Oral hygiene and electrolyte balance should be maintained. Vaccination against Infection is an important prophylactic measure. Maintaining personal and environmental hygiene should be implemented. Avoidance of crowded areas at times of active infection helps to prevent the spread.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
Facts and Figures:
As per the WHO statistics 2010 marks the 30th anniversary of the eradication of smallpox. Smallpox was officially declared eradicated in 1980 and is the first disease to have been fought on a global scale.
