Smallpox

Exams and Tests

A suspected first case of smallpox is considered an international health emergency. Specialized laboratory testing is necessary to confirm a suspected smallpox infection.

• Specially trained and vaccinated doctors take fluid samples from the person's mouth or from the suspected smallpox lesions.
• The sealed samples are shipped to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or another designated laboratory that is equipped to handle the variola virus.

In the laboratory, variola virus can be quickly identified using a combination of:

• An electron microscope to examine the appearance of the virus.
• Viral culture.
• Various tests to identify the virus's genetic material, or DNA.

If a smallpox (variola) outbreak is already documented, a physical exam and history of symptoms and exposure may be sufficient for your doctor to diagnose smallpox.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: January 26, 2009
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
© 1995-2010 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.