For many centuries, smallpox devastated mankind. But in modern times we do not have to worry about it. Thanks to the outstanding work of Edward Jenner and later developments from his endeavors. With the rapid pace of vaccine development in recent decades, the historic origins of immunization are often forgotten. This article unravels the history lying behind smallpox and vaccination.
Edward Jenner is well known around the world for his innovative contribution to immunization and the ultimate eradication of smallpox. His work is widely regarded as the foundation of immunology. Origin of smallpox disease The origin of smallpox as a natural disease is lost in prehistory. It seems plausible that it spread from northeastern Africa to India by means of ancient Egyptian merchants.A contributing factor to smallpox in the Americas was the slave trade because many slaves came from regions in…
