What did scientists discover about the old virus?

It was less deadly than the later global smallpox strain.

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

First publishedJul 30, 18:00 UTC

Last updatedJul 30, 21:22 UTC · 7m ago

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Answer

Scientists have found smallpox viruses in the remains of people in Chile from around 500 years ago, revealing how the virus may have evolved into a global killer.

Reported by 1 outlet — NYT Home. See all sources ↓

Scientists studied human remains from Chile that are about 500 years old. They found pieces of the smallpox virus in those remains. The ancient virus looks different from the deadly smallpox that later spread worldwide. This suggests the virus changed over time and became more dangerous.

Why it matters

Learning how viruses evolve helps scientists prepare for future outbreaks and improve vaccines.

In brief

Where were the remains found?: In Chile.
What did scientists discover about the old virus?: It was less deadly than the later global smallpox strain.

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‘This Is Very Strange’: Ancient Smallpox May Have Been Less Deadly
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NYT HomeJul 30, 18:00