Consider the following diseases

1. Diphtheria
2. Chickenpox
3. Smallpox

Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2014 Prelims]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None

Answer: (b)        

Explanation:

Smallpox:

• The Variola virus caused a severe infectious disease known as smallpox.
• Smallpox has been eradicated, and there have been no cases of naturally occurring smallpox since 1977.
• The disease mainly spread through direct and prolonged face-to-face contact between individuals.

Diphtheria:

• Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes in the nose and throat.
• The bacteria responsible for causing diphtheria is known as Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

Chickenpox:

• Chickenpox is an infection caused by the Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
• The virus can spread through various ways, such as saliva, coughing, sneezing, or contact with fluid from the blisters.