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    The Economic Impact of Smallpox Eradication

    Introduction Smallpox, caused by the variola virus, was a devastating disease with high mortality rates and significant economic costs. The global eradication campaign, led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and supported by international cooperation, successfully eliminated the disease in 1980. This achievement not only demonstrated the effectiveness of vaccination and public health strategies but also highlighted the substantial economic benefits of eradicating a major infectious disease. Understanding these economic impacts provides valuable lessons for future public health initiatives and disease eradication efforts.   The Costs of Smallpox Eradication Financial Investment in Vaccination Campaigns The eradication of smallpox required a…