Modified smallpox refers to a strain of the variola virus that has been genetically altered in order to make it less virulent. The proper spelling of this term is [ˈmɑːdɪfaɪd ˈsmɔːlpɒks], with stress on the first syllable of "modified" and the second syllable of "smallpox". The pronunciation is marked by the use of the long "a" sound in "modified", and the long "o" sound in "smallpox". The use of phonetic transcription helps to clarify the correct pronunciation of the word, particularly for those who may not be familiar with the term.
Modified smallpox refers to a variant or altered form of the smallpox virus (variolavirus) that has been intentionally manipulated or modified for various purposes, typically scientific or medical research. Smallpox is an infectious and highly contagious disease caused by the variola virus. It is characterized by a severe rash and fever, often leading to significant illness and even death.
Modified smallpox involves the introduction of deliberate changes or alterations to the genetic material or phenotype of the smallpox virus. These modifications can be made to enhance scientific understanding of the virus, develop diagnostic tools, create new disease treatments or prevention strategies, or investigate potential biological weapons defense mechanisms.
It is important to note that modified smallpox is typically studied and handled with the utmost precautions and under strict biosecurity standards within specialized laboratories. Such research is conducted only by trained and authorized experts to prevent accidental release or misuse of the virus. These measures are in place due to the potential risks associated with handling and studying the smallpox virus, even in its modified form.
The study and manipulation of modified smallpox have played significant roles in advancing our understanding of the virus and developing effective strategies for preventing and treating smallpox and related diseases. Additionally, it has provided insights into the field of virology, contributed to advancements in antiviral drugs, and supported the development of novel vaccine platforms.
Varioloid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "modified smallpox" does not have its own separate etymology. Instead, it is a combination of two words: "modified" and "smallpox".
The word "modified" comes from the Latin word "modificare", which means "to regulate", "to moderate", or "to alter". In English, the word "modified" generally refers to something that has been changed or altered in some way.
"Smallpox", on the other hand, is a highly contagious and often severe infectious disease caused by the variola virus. The word "smallpox" originated from the Old English word "smæl" (meaning small) and "pox" (which refers to the pustules that appear on the skin during the infection).