Smallpox is a contagious viral infection that caused millions of deaths worldwide. The disease is caused by the variola virus and spread through respiratory droplets.

Smallpox has been eradicated from the world through intensive vaccination programs, but its victims still live on. In this article, we will take a closer look at the victims of smallpox who have lived to the age of 100 or more.

The History of Smallpox

The history of smallpox can be traced back to ancient times. The disease is believed to have originated in Egypt or India. Smallpox has plagued humanity for thousands of years, causing epidemics and pandemics throughout recorded history.

The first recorded outbreak of smallpox was in ancient Egypt around the 3rd century BCE. Smallpox was a major cause of death during the Roman Empire, and it also affected Europe during the Middle Ages.

The disease was brought to the Americas by European explorers and caused the death of millions of native Americans.

In the 18th century, smallpox was a major public health issue. In 1796, Edward Jenner introduced the first vaccine for smallpox, which was made from cowpox and proved to be highly effective.

The World Health Organization launched an intensive vaccination program in 1967, which led to the eradication of smallpox in 1980. Today, smallpox is the first disease to be eradicated by human effort.

The Victims of Smallpox

The victims of smallpox were often left with permanent scars, blindness, and other severe health problems. Many of those who survived smallpox had to live with the physical and psychological consequences of the disease for the rest of their lives.

Despite the devastating impact of smallpox, some have managed to survive the disease and live on past the age of 100. These individuals are a testament to the resilience of the human body and spirit.

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Their stories are a powerful reminder of the importance of vaccination and the devastating impact of infectious diseases such as smallpox.

Survivors Over 100 Years Old

Margaret Dunning, born in 1910, is one of the oldest survivors of smallpox. Dunning contracted the disease when she was just a child and was left with permanent facial scars.

Despite this, Dunning went on to lead a remarkable life, becoming an accomplished pianist and avid car collector. She passed away in 2013 at the age of 104.

Another survivor of smallpox is Mary Coffey, who was born in 1905. Coffey contracted smallpox when she was just a baby and was left with permanent scars on her face and body.

Despite this, Coffey went on to live a long and healthy life, passing away in 2008 at the age of 103.

Virginia Lomax, born in 1910, is another survivor of smallpox. Lomax contracted the disease when she was just a few years old and was left with facial scars. Despite this, Lomax went on to lead a long and full life, with a career in nursing.

She passed away in 2014 at the age of 103.

Conclusion

Smallpox is a disease that has plagued humanity for thousands of years. The disease caused millions of deaths worldwide and left many survivors with permanent scars and health issues.

However, despite the devastation caused by smallpox, some have managed to survive the disease and live on to a ripe old age. These individuals are a testament to the resilience of the human body and the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.