You might be thinking that Smallpox and Chickenpox are the same diseases because they both cause rashes and blisters, and both have “pox” in their names. But in fact, they are entirely different diseases.
No one in the last 65 years has have reported being sick of Smallpox across the US. But you should know information about it.
Smallpox is extinct, But Chickenpox Is Still Active.
Chickenpox is a common illness in kids. About 4 million people get sick with it every year, and thousands are sent to the hospital. Although the vaccine has made it much rarer, many people still get it every year.
On the other hand, the chances of someone getting Smallpox is almost zero. The disease is all but gone, thanks to the vaccine.
Effects Of Smallpox Are Deadly Vs. Chickenpox Are Mild.
Varicella is the cause of Chickenpox, and it’s straightforward to catch Chickenpox. You will get itchy blisters all over your body and have a high fever. Smallpox, in most cases, lasts about 5 to 7 days.
With Smallpox, an average of 3 out of 10 people who got it died. Those who survived ended up being blind or with permanent scars.
Your Doctor Can Identify If It’s A Chickenpox and Smallpox.
- Chickenpox, all the sores come into visibility, not simultaneously as well as they come mostly on the stomach, chest, and back. It’s sporadic to have them on the palms or the soles of your feet.
- Smallpox, all the sores come into visibility simultaneously and all across the body, and they all look the same too.
Chickenpox Vaccine Vs. Smallpox Vaccine.
While Chickenpox can cause critical illness in infants or those with a fragile immune system, it’s just a mild disease for the rest. Hence children receive a vaccine at the age of one and a booster between the four and six.
On the other hand, people do not require a smallpox vaccine anymore. No one in the US got the vaccine if they were born after 1972. Only those working at medical labs might need it.
To inquire more about your Smallpox and if your child requires a vaccine, contact Pediatric Healthcare. Call us at 281-655-1500 or (936)539-8190 to schedule your appointment.
