Conclusion on the destruction of smallpox virus

Finally, we were asked to conclude and sum up our findings. Below is my conclusion as to why the remaining smallpox stocks should be destroyed...................

In conclusion, scientists are using scaremongering tactics to convince the WHA that the retention of the last remaining stocks of smallpox virus should remain as they are needed for further research into treatment and vaccinations. This is not the case, as vaccinations and anti-viral drugs have been produced and in the event of a further outbreak can be used across the world. Comparatively, the threat of smallpox being used as a bioweapon by terrorist is also unfounded, as there is no hard evidence to suggest that there are any undisclosed stocks of the virus held in other parts of the world. In the unlikely event that smallpox is used as a bioweapon against us, there has been enough research documented to contain and eradicate smallpox once again should this become a reality. After millions of people across the world lost their lives to smallpox, and the sheer devastation caused by the smallpox endemic, surely, the time is now right to destroy the remaining stocks to potentially put an end to the smallpox virus once and for all.

Bibliography

Hammond, E. and Ching, L. (2011) Smallpox virus stocks at the 64^th WHA: Implementing the conclusions of the major review. Switzerland: Third World Network.