[tallhappy]

Smallpox only become infective after the rash develops. Since the rash normally develops in the oral mucosa first, it is a bit harder to notice. But anyone who knows what to look for will easily recognize the telltale signs of the disease. Also, the rash form AFTER a 2-3 day prodromal stage which is characterized by very high fever, malaise and muscle aches.

Thanks.

The problem is, different people have different thresholds of pain and differing onset of symptoms.

I am sure a doctor could identify the oral mucosa rash, but there could be people who still go about their business depite muscle aches and the like.

The point is, not to scare anyone, but to realize that people who have no idea they have small pox could easily unknowingly transmit it.

[TomB]

The point is, not to scare anyone, but to realize that people who have no idea they have small pox could easily unknowingly transmit it.

I'm sorry, but that is an incorrect statement. By the time you become infective, you WILL know you are sick. You may not be bedridden yet, but belive me, you cannot miss the oral lesions.

[Nita Nupress]

The point is, not to scare anyone, but to realize that people who have no idea they have small pox could easily unknowingly transmit it.

I think I would notice if I developed lesions in my mouth.  Then again, I suppose the yucky lesions could develop deep in my pharynx...  ;-)

http://jama.ama-assn.org/issues/v281n22/ffull/jst90000.html#a5

The lesions that first appear in the mouth and pharynx ulcerate quickly because of the absence of a stratum corneum, releasing large amounts of virus into the saliva.²² Virus titers in saliva are highest during the first week of illness, corresponding with the period during which patients are most infectious. Although the virus in some instances can be detected in swabs taken from the oropharynx as many as 5 to 6 days before the rash develops,²² transmission does not occur during this period.