The agent that causes smallpox is?

Appeared in: UPRVUNL - 2021

Explanation

Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the Variola virus.
Variola virus is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which is part of the Poxviridae family of viruses.
It is a DNA virus known for causing a characteristic rash, high fever, and significant mortality before its eradication.
Transmission occurs through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects.

Option B: Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is the causative agent of chickenpox and shingles, not smallpox. While both cause vesicular rashes, their clinical presentations are distinct.
Option C: Vibrio cholerae is a bacterium, not a virus. It causes cholera, an intestinal infection characterized by severe watery diarrhea.
Option D: The Rubella virus causes Rubella, also known as German measles. This is a different viral illness, typically milder than smallpox, characterized by a rash and swollen lymph nodes.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agent of smallpox as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Although eradicated, smallpox remains a potential bioterrorism agent. Nurses must be able to recognize its signs and symptoms for rapid identification and implementation of infection control measures.
Differentiating smallpox from chickenpox is a critical skill. A key sign for smallpox is a centrifugal rash (more on extremities) where all lesions are at the same stage of development.
The global eradication of smallpox through vaccination underscores the profound impact of public health initiatives and immunization programs on global health.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology and infectious diseases.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'smallpox'.
Recall the specific pathogen associated with this disease.
Evaluate each option: 'Variola' is the virus that causes smallpox.
Eliminate the other options by identifying the diseases they cause: Varicella-zoster (chickenpox/shingles), Vibrio cholera (cholera), and Rubella virus (German measles).
Confirm your choice. The correct agent for smallpox is the Variola virus.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 pp. 1090-1092, 1559-1561

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) p. 146-148

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.