Tracing the journey of poxviruses: insights from history.
Arch Virol
; 169(2): 37, 2024 Jan 27.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38280957
ABSTRACT
The historical significance of the poxviruses is profound, largely due to the enduring impact left by smallpox virus across many centuries. The elimination of smallpox is a remarkable accomplishment in the history of science and medicine, with centuries of devoted efforts resulting in the development and widespread administration of smallpox vaccines. This review provides insight into the pivotal historical events involving medically significant poxviruses. Understanding the remarkable saga of combatting smallpox is crucial, serving as a guidepost for potential future encounters with poxvirus infections. There is a continual need for vigilant observation of poxvirus evolution and spillover from animals to humans, considering the expansive range of susceptible hosts. The recent occurrence of monkeypox cases in non-endemic countries stands as a stark reminder of the ease with which infections can be disseminated through international travel and trade. This backdrop encourages introspection about our journey and the current status of poxvirus research.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Poxviridae
/
Smallpox
/
Poxviridae Infections
Limits:
Animals
/
Humans
Language:
En
Journal:
Arch Virol
Year:
2024
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
India