Last Naturally Occurring Smallpox Case Recorded
October 16th, 1975
October 16th, 1975

How Long Ago?
49 years, 4 months, 27 days ago
Location
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Category
Health & Medicine
People
- Rahima Banu
Links & References
Tags
Last Naturally Occurring Smallpox Case Recorded
Rahima Banu, a three-year-old girl from Bangladesh, was diagnosed with smallpox in 1975, marking the last known case of naturally occurring smallpox. Her case occurred in a rural area, where health workers were combating outbreaks of the disease. After being identified, she received treatment, and subsequent efforts ensured that there were no further cases, confirming smallpox's global eradication. Rahima's survival and the response from public health led to increased efforts for vaccination and disease control.
Rahima Banu was the last natural smallpox case.
Her case marked a significant health milestone.
Smallpox was eradicated through global vaccination.
WHO declared smallpox eradicated in 1980.
What Happened?
The last natural case of smallpox was reported in Dhaka, Bangladesh, involving three-year-old Rahima Banu in October 1975. Smallpox, a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever and a distinctive skin rash, had plagued humanity for centuries, causing significant mortality and disfigurement. The World Health Organization (WHO) had initiated an aggressive global vaccination campaign against smallpox in 1967. This program aimed not only to control the spread of the disease but also to eradicate it entirely, which was seen as a feasible goal due to the specific nature of the virus and the availability of effective vaccines.
Rahima's case emerged during a period where smallpox vaccination was being intensified. With the active involvement of local health workers, they promptly identified her illness and launched immediate efforts to contain it. The swift response was crucial, preventing further transmission of the virus from the area. Medical teams treated her and conducted mass vaccination campaigns to ensure that her community was protected from similar outbreaks. This diligent response contributed to the efforts initiated by WHO, solidifying the importance of cooperative public health strategies.
Following Rahima Banu's case, no further naturally occurring instances of smallpox were recorded. WHO later declared the disease eradicated in 1980, marking a landmark achievement in public health and global cooperation. Rahima's case became a pivotal point in virology and epidemiology, illustrating the effectiveness of vaccinations and the significance of monitoring and surveillance in public health.
Why Does it Matter?
The last naturally occurring case of smallpox is remarkable because it signifies not just the end of a deadly disease but a monumental achievement in global health initiatives. The eradication of smallpox is often cited as one of the greatest successes of medicine, showcasing the power of collective efforts in vaccination and disease prevention. This milestone has laid the groundwork for future campaigns against other infectious diseases, highlighting the importance of global health collaboration.
Discover More Historic Events from October 16th
Yahya Sinwar killed in Israel–Hamas war firefight
Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, was killed during a firefight in Gaza amidst the ongoing Israel–Hamas conflict. His death occurred in a confrontation with Israeli forces. Sinwar had been instrumental in Hamas strategy and operations against Israel. The operation that led to his death involved precision strikes aimed at Hamas leadership, reflecting the ongoing tensions and hostilities in the region.
Continue ReadingStorm Ophelia Causes Destruction in U.K. and Ireland
Storm Ophelia, a powerful post-tropical cyclone, struck the U.K. and Ireland, bringing powerful winds and heavy rain. The storm led to widespread destruction, including fallen trees, roof damage, and power outages affecting over 360,000 homes. Schools closed and public transport was heavily disrupted as authorities urged people to stay indoors. Emergency services worked tirelessly to clear roads and restore power in the aftermath of this severe weather event.
Continue ReadingLao Airlines Flight 301 crashes near Pakse
Lao Airlines Flight 301 was a domestic flight from Vientiane to Pakse, Laos, that tragically crashed on approach to Pakse International Airport. The aircraft, an ATR 72-500, went down in the Mekong River, resulting in the loss of 49 lives, including passengers and crew. This incident marked one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Laotian history and raised significant concerns over aviation safety standards within the country.
Continue ReadingNew Bibliotheca Alexandrina Opens in Egypt
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina opened its doors in Egypt, reviving the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria, this modern library represents a significant cultural project aimed at promoting knowledge and learning. The grand inauguration featured dignitaries and cultural figures, bringing attention to Egypt's rich intellectual heritage. Aimed at fostering partnerships between different cultures, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina serves as a symbol of dialogue, learning, and enlightenment.
Continue ReadingMagnitude 7.1 Hector Mine Earthquake Strikes
A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck near the town of Hector Mine in Southern California. Occurring on October 16, 1999, this seismic event caused significant shaking, with the tremors felt across a wide region. While there were no reported direct fatalities, the earthquake was extensive enough to damage numerous buildings and infrastructure across the region, prompting emergency responses and evaluations. The quake occurred as part of the tectonic activity associated with the complex fault systems in California, highlighting the state’s vulnerability to seismic events.
Continue ReadingPinochet Arrested in London Over Extradition Warrant
Augusto Pinochet, the former dictator of Chile, was arrested in London under a warrant issued for extradition to Spain for murder and torture charges. This arrest occurred after a lengthy campaign by human rights activists and the Spanish judiciary. The arrest marked a significant moment in efforts to hold former dictators accountable for human rights violations. Pinochet was in London for medical treatment at the time of his arrest, which drew global attention to his controversial rule in Chile.
Continue Reading