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Smallpox and bio-terrorism
Smallpox
The last case of smallpox was seen in Somalia in 1977 and the WHO declared in 1980 that smallpox had been eradicated, except for stocks of smallpox virus kept in two laboratories: CDC, Atlanta, US and Institute for Viral Preparations, Koltsovo, Russia.
It has been decided not to destroy the existing stockpiles.
Rumors that samples of the virus exist in other places has not been confirmed.
Smallpox vaccine has not been available since 1983, and can no longer be purchased.
The vaccine is only available to laboratories where smallpox vaccine virus, Vaccinia virus, is a common tool in biotechnology.
Many countries, including the UK has kept stock of smallpox vaccine since the 70s and are considering increasing stocks.
More information
More about smallpox
PHLS guidelines in case of suspected release of smallpox
More about bio-terrorism
CDC Bio-terrorism Preparedness and Response
Bacteria and chemical agents which may be used for bio-terrorrism
Edited 15. November 2003
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