Which of the following explains the impact of the creation of the smallpox vaccine on the Americas?

Question

It prevented milkmaids on the two continents from getting the disease.

It led to the development of ways to prevent the disease like mosquito nets.

It led to the complete eradication of the disease.

It led to the deaths of about 90 percent of Indigenous Americans.

Answer 1

The statement that explains the impact of the creation of the smallpox vaccine on the Americas is:

It led to the complete eradication of the disease.

However, it's important to note that while the smallpox vaccine was highly effective and contributed significantly to the eventual global eradication of smallpox, complete eradication was achieved in 1980, long after its introduction. The vaccine also played a crucial role in controlling outbreaks and protecting populations, including Indigenous Americans, who suffered greatly from the disease prior to widespread vaccination efforts.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the impact of the smallpox vaccine:

• The first statement is too specific and does not convey the broader impact.
• The second statement is unrelated to smallpox.
• The fourth statement is historically accurate regarding the devastating impact of smallpox on Indigenous populations, but it does not relate to the vaccine's impact.