1978 smallpox outbreak in the United Kingdom

1978 smallpox outbreak in the United Kingdom

The 1978 smallpox outbreak in the United Kingdom was the last occurrence of smallpox in the country, resulting in two cases and one death. The outbreak occurred in Birmingham, England, and was linked to a laboratory at the University of Birmingham Medical School.

Background

Birmingham Medical School

Smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the Variola virus. By the mid-20th century, smallpox had been eradicated in many parts of the world due to successful vaccination campaigns. However, the virus was still present in laboratory settings for research purposes.

In 1978, the World Health Organization (WHO) was on the verge of declaring smallpox eradicated globally. The last naturally occurring case was reported in Somalia in 1977. Despite this, the virus was still kept in laboratories for research, including at the University of Birmingham Medical School.

The Outbreak

University of Birmingham Medical School Building Smallpox Laboratory

The outbreak began in August 1978 when Janet Parker, a medical photographer working at the University of Birmingham Medical School, contracted smallpox. Parker worked on the floor above a laboratory where research on the smallpox virus was conducted. It is believed that the virus escaped from the laboratory, although the exact route of transmission was never conclusively determined.

Parker developed symptoms of smallpox, including fever and a rash, and was admitted to the East Birmingham Hospital. Despite intensive care, she succumbed to the disease on September 11, 1978. Her mother also contracted the disease but survived.

Containment and Response

Infectious Diseases Ward EBH 1978

Upon confirmation of the smallpox case, health authorities implemented strict containment measures. The hospital ward where Parker was treated was isolated, and all individuals who had been in contact with her were traced and vaccinated. The laboratory was sealed, and a thorough investigation was conducted.

The outbreak prompted a national response, with the government and health officials working to prevent further spread. The WHO was notified, and international experts were consulted to ensure the outbreak was contained.

Aftermath

Wards 32-33 EBH, 1978

The outbreak led to significant changes in laboratory safety protocols and the handling of dangerous pathogens. The laboratory at the University of Birmingham was closed, and the head of the laboratory, Professor Henry Bedson, tragically took his own life during the investigation.

The incident highlighted the risks associated with the storage and handling of deadly pathogens, even in controlled environments. It also reinforced the importance of stringent safety measures in research facilities.

Legacy

The 1978 smallpox outbreak in the United Kingdom remains a pivotal event in the history of infectious disease control. It underscored the need for global cooperation in the eradication of diseases and the importance of maintaining vigilance even after a disease is declared eradicated.

The outbreak was the last occurrence of smallpox in the world, as the WHO officially declared smallpox eradicated in 1980. The lessons learned from this incident continue to inform public health policies and laboratory safety standards worldwide.

Related pages

• Smallpox
• World Health Organization
• Infectious disease
• Laboratory safety