Which of the Statements Regarding Smallpox is TRUE

Question

Which of the statements regarding smallpox is TRUE?
A) Smallpox has been eliminated as a naturally occurring infection in human beings.
B) Smallpox still occasionally occurs in developing countries.
C) Smallpox outbreaks sometimes occur in chimpanzee populations.
D) Smallpox has been eliminated by effective vaccination.
E) Smallpox has been eliminated as a naturally occurring infection in human beings, AND has been eliminated by effective vaccination.

Accepted Answer

Smallpox has been completely eliminated as a naturally occurring infection in human beings, and this was achieved through effective vaccination. The last naturally occurring case of smallpox was reported in 1977, and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared smallpox eradicated in 1980. However, smallpox still exists in laboratory stocks, so there is a risk of intentional release of the virus. Also, smallpox outbreaks sometimes occur in chimpanzee populations. Therefore, smallpox is still a potential threat and vaccination is important to ensure protection.