Smallpox risk factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
Overview
People who work in laboratories with the virus are at risk of contracting smallpox. Before its eradication, risk factors for developing smallpox included: physical contact with a patient with the disease, contact with contaminated body fluids, and exposure to contaminated aerosolized particles.[1]
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Prior to Eradication
- Physical contact with someone with smallpox
- Direct contact with infected bodily fluids
- Direct contact with contaminated surfaces
- Exposure to aerosolized particles from someone with smallpox
Present
- Laboratory work with the virus
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