Smallpox was once one of the most dangerous and contagious diseases in human history. It was caused by the variola virus and spread easily from person to person through airborne droplets or contact with contaminated items. The disease had a very high mortality rate, killing approximately 3 out of every 10 people who became infected. Those who survived were often left with permanent scars, especially on the face and body, and in some cases, even blindness.

The breakthrough in fighting smallpox came through vaccination. Scientists developed a vaccine using a related virus called vaccinia, which is similar enough to the variola virus to trigger a strong immune response but not cause the disease itself. This vaccine played a crucial role in the global effort to eliminate smallpox.

When people received the smallpox vaccine, it was administered using a special two-pronged (bifurcated) needle. This tool was used to…

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