Smallpox A Scourge No More

May 23, 1986|By G. Timothy Johnson, M.D.

Dear Dr. Johnson: How long has it been since there has been a smallpox epidemic in this country or in the world?

The last known single case of smallpox occurred in 1977. Since then there has been no reported case of smallpox--let alone an epidemic--anywhere in the world. In short, smallpox is one of the ``conquered`` diseases in our world, and therefore, people traveling throughout the world should no longer be required to have a smallpox vaccination. Indeed, it is now considered malpractice for somebody to be vaccinated against smallpox.

The only two vaccinations now required by some countries--and those requirements change from time to time--are yellow fever (which can only be given in certain places) and cholera. The actual, up-to-date requirements for which countries will require one or both of these vaccines can only be determined by consulting your local public health authorities. I should also point out that when it comes to cholera, the vaccine is really not that effective, and most public health authorities say that it is better to try to avoid contaminated food and water than to rely on the cholera vaccine for protection.

There are many other vaccinations or injections (such as immunoglobulin for hepatitis prevention) that should be considered, depending on the specific areas of the world to which one is traveling.

Dear Dr. Johnson: This may seem silly, but why is acne sometimes referred to as acne vulgaris?

In this case, the term vulgaris means ``common``--and that certainly is an appropriate label when it comes to acne. Experts maintain that all adolescents, if you look closely enough at their skin, show some manifestation of acne at some time during their teenage years.

Dear Readers: According to the Feb. 28, 1986, issue of Internal Medicine Alert, dermatologists are describing a condition known as ``aquagenic pruritis`` meaning itching related to exposure to water.

In some cases, this problem is very difficult to treat, but in others

--particularly when the condition affects the elderly--it can be aided by various maneuvers that help to moisturize the skin and by minimizing exposure to water. If you believe you have an itching problem that might be a result of this phenomenon, it may be worth a call to your doctor`s office or clinic.

Most headaches can be traced to relatively simple causes; however, there are those that deserve medical attention. To learn more, send for Dr. Johnson`s booklet. For a copy, send $2.25 to ``Headache,`` Box 4406, Orlando, Fla. 32802-4406. Make checks payable to Newspaperbooks.