‘This Is Very Strange’: Ancient Smallpox May Have Been Less Deadly

Scientists have discovered smallpox viruses in 500-year-old human remains in Chile, providing insight into the evolution of the disease. The findings suggest that ancient smallpox may have been less deadly than its modern counterpart. Researchers believe that the virus may have mutated over time to become more virulent, ultimately spreading globally. The discovery sheds new light on the history of smallpox and its transformation into a major killer.

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