The nurse is teaching a community health class about the history of smallpox. Which statements does the nurse include in the material? Select all that apply.

Question

A) "Smallpox was first identified in the eighteenth century."
B) "Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1977."
C) "Due to its eradication, weaponized smallpox is not considered a risk."
D) "Before being eradicated, the death rate of smallpox was 30-50%."
E) "The primary form of smallpox transmission is as a surface contaminant."

Answer 1

B) "Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1977."
D) "Before being eradicated, the death rate of smallpox was 30-50%."

Explanation: A) Smallpox has been known to exist for over 3000 years.
B) Due to extensive vaccination efforts, the disease was declared to be eradicated in 1977. However, at least two samples of the smallpox virus still exist in laboratories. One is located at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, and the other is in Russia.
C) The former Soviet Union was suspected of weaponizing smallpox in 1980, and there is concern that this virus may have changed hands when the Soviet Union came apart.
D) Before being eradicated, smallpox had a mortality rate of approximately 30-50%.
E) The disease is highly contagious and can be transmitted by becoming airborne from coughing or sneezing patients or as a surface contaminant spread by clothing and linens.