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Smallpox - Symptom

Alternative Names

Variola - major and minor; Variola

Symptoms:

  • High fever
  • Fatigue
  • Severe headache
  • Backache
  • Malaise
  • Raised pink rash -- turns into pus-filled lesions that become crusty on day 8 or 9
  • Delirium
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Excessive bleeding

Signs and tests:

Blood tests will show a low white blood cell count at first, but higher levels of white blood cells are seen later in the disease. Platelet count will be low.

A DIC panel can be positive if there is excessive bleeding. Antibodies turn positive soon after the infection is complete.

Special laboratory tests can be used to identify the virus.

  • Reviewed last on: 6/20/2007
  • Arnold L. Lentnek, MD, Division of Infectious Disease, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.