One of the real problems with this whole discussion is who do you believe? Since Sept. 11 when the questions about the possibility of a small pox bio-attack have been raised, I've seen only two sides, either "we're all gonna die" or, "it won't be a problem, go back to your lives citizens". Where does one go for realistic information that will allow us to be prepared without freaking out needlessly?
They are completely different viruses. Smallpox is your tradional Pox virus. Chicken pox is in the herpes family.
One of the real problems with this whole discussion is who do you believe? Since Sept. 11 when the questions about the possibility of a small pox bio-attack have been raised, I've seen only two sides, either "we're all gonna die" or, "it won't be a problem, go back to your lives citizens". Where does one go for realistic information that will allow us to be prepared without freaking out needlessly?
The only way to wade through propaganda is to check the information yourself. Most of the time the real answer lies somewhere between. I personally do not think smallpox would be much of an issue here in the states. We have the protocols and vaccines in place to actually stop an even big outbreak. Smallpox would devaste the 3rd world if relased though. Terrorists would be stupid to ever use it because it would come right back and kill their families.
My advice here, would be read information on the virus and the vaccine and the protocols we have in place for dealing with it. In the end, only you can make the choice on where you stand.