Smallpox is to be given a stay of execution. Scientists advising the World
Health Organization have recommended postponing the destruction of the last
official stocks of smallpox virus, which are held under guard in the US and
Russia. WHO member states agreed reluctantly in 2000 to put off the
destruction—and the official extinction of smallpox—until this year.
But with renewed fears of bioterrorism, the scientists want to keep the virus
for vaccine research. The panel of member states that oversees the WHO is
expected to vote on the issue this week.
To continue reading, today with our introductory offers
Advertisement
More from Â鶹´«Ã½
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Popular articles
Trending Â鶹´«Ã½ articles
1
Are Neanderthals descendants of modern humans?
2
Our dreams become more emotive and symbolic as we approach death
3
Collapse of key ocean current may release billions of tonnes of carbon
4
Why is it so hard to change your mind?
5
Largest ever map of universe captures 47 million galaxies and quasars
6
How autoimmune conditions can unexpectedly drive mental illness
7
The man who crawls into the perilous heart of the Chernobyl reactor
8
A key solution to climate change isn't happening – and that's good
9
Exclusive report: Inside Chernobyl, 40 years after nuclear disaster
10
Electric vehicle owners could earn thousands by supporting power grid
