Variola major is a virus that causes smallpox in humans. The word "variola" is pronounced /vəˈraɪələ/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the primary stress on the second syllable. "Major" is pronounced /ˈmeɪdʒər/ in IPA, with the primary stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "variola major" follows standard English conventions, using the letter "v" to represent the voiced labiodental fricative sound at the beginning of "variola" and the letter "j" to represent the voiced palato-alveolar affricate sound in "major".
Variola Major is a highly contagious and severe viral infection caused by the Variola virus. It is commonly known as smallpox and has been a significant human disease throughout history. Smallpox is characterized by the appearance of a rash all over the body, with raised and fluid-filled blisters that ultimately form scabs. This infectious disease primarily affects humans and does not have known reservoirs in other animals.
Transmission of Variola Major usually occurs through respiratory droplets expelled by an infected person. Direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated objects may also lead to transmission. Once the virus enters the body, it invades the respiratory system, spreads through the bloodstream, and eventually affects various organs.
Symptoms of Variola Major usually appear within 12 to 14 days after exposure and include fever, headache, body aches, and overall discomfort. As the disease progresses, the characteristic rash develops on the face, arms, and finally spreads to the trunk and legs. Smallpox is notable for its high mortality rate, with up to 30% of infected individuals succumbing to the illness.
Today, Variola Major has been eradicated worldwide due to an intensive and successful global vaccination campaign. The last known natural case of smallpox occurred in 1977, and the World Health Organization declared the disease eradicated in 1980. However, stocks of the Variola virus are retained in highly secure laboratories for potential research purposes.
In conclusion, Variola Major is a historically significant viral infection, commonly known as smallpox, which caused severe illness in humans before being eradicated.
The word "Variola Major" comes from two different origins.
1. Variola: The term "Variola" is derived from the Latin word "variolaris", meaning "speckled" or "spotted". This refers to the characteristic rash or pustules caused by the Variola virus, the virus responsible for smallpox.
2. Major: The word "Major" is derived from the Latin word "major", meaning "greater" or "larger". It is used to distinguish Variola Major from Variola Minor, which refers to a less severe form of smallpox.
So, "Variola Major" essentially means "greater spotted" or "larger form" of smallpox.