The smallpox outbreak was one of the worst pandemics to occur.This deadly virus killed 3 out of every 10 people who becameinfected. Smallpox is the only human disease to have ever beeneradicated. Although there was a vaccine developed and produced ittook over 200 years for the vaccine to completely eradicate thevirus. Within the US the CDC reserves the right to quarantineindividuals whom show symptoms of smallpox. Smallpox was able todevelop herd immunity due to the vaccine. I believe that herdimmunity will come soon now that the vaccine has been widelydistributed. Once the vaccine has been distributed to all agegroups I feel that we will reach herd immunity with COVID-19. Wheneducating my patients regarding herd immunity I will explain whatherd immunity is and the benefits to getting vaccines. Educatingpatients on the benefits to vaccines is key in nursing so that theyfully understand the benefits and risks.
Do you agree or disagree? Please explain.
