Alastrim is a term used to refer to a mild form of smallpox, a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral illness. Smallpox is caused by the variola virus and is characterized by the development of pus-filled sores or rashes on the skin, high fever, severe headache, malaise, and in some cases, respiratory symptoms. Alastrim, also known as variola minor or Mexican smallpox, is considered less severe compared to its counterpart, variola major.
The term alastrim originates from the Spanish language, where it is derived from the Arabic word "al'asas" meaning smallpox. Alastrim is typically manifested by a milder form of skin rash or pustule formation on the body, as opposed to the extensive rash seen in variola major. The disease is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with infected droplets or respiratory secretions expelled during coughing or sneezing.
The symptoms of alastrim are generally similar to those of variola major, although less severe. They include high fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, and the development of a rash on the skin. Unlike variola major, alastrim is associated with a lower risk of severe complications and death.
Due to the development of effective vaccines and a global eradication campaign, alastrim, along with other forms of smallpox, has become exceedingly rare, with the last known case of natural transmission reported in 1977. Today, the term alastrim is mostly used in medical literature and historical contexts to describe the milder forms of smallpox that have occurred throughout history.
