Correct spelling for the English word "Black variola" is [blˈak vˌe͡əɹɪˈə͡ʊlə], [blˈak vˌeəɹɪˈəʊlə], [b_l_ˈa_k v_ˌeə_ɹ_ɪ__ˈəʊ_l_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Black variola, also known as hemorrhagic smallpox, is a severe and highly infectious viral disease caused by the Variola major virus. It is characterized by its distinctive symptoms, including high fever, malaise, intense headache, body aches, and the formation of dark, hemorrhagic skin spots.
This variant of smallpox is more severe and often fatal compared to the ordinary form of the disease. It is named "black variola" due to the dark discoloration of the skin caused by internal bleeding and widespread tissue damage. The hemorrhagic spots may initially appear red and then progress to a dark, almost black appearance.
The progression of black variola is rapid, typically leading to systemic complications such as generalized bleeding, shock, and organ failure. It is associated with a higher mortality rate than regular smallpox, and deaths can occur within a matter of days. Furthermore, due to its intensified contagiousness, a single case of black variola can easily spark an outbreak with devastating consequences.
In order to prevent the spread of black variola, vaccination is crucial. Vaccination against regular smallpox can provide protection against this variant as well. Early detection and strict isolation of infected individuals are paramount to containing the disease and preventing its further transmission.
Despite extensive vaccination efforts and global efforts to eradicate smallpox, the occurrence of black variola remains a potential concern in some regions, particularly if the virus were deliberately released as an act of bioterrorism.