Global Eradication of Diseases
Selection of infectious diseases for eradication is based on rigorous criteria, as both biological and technical features determine whether a pathogenic organism is eradicable. Enough information on the life cycle and transmission dynamics is available at the time an eradication initiative is programmed. An efficient and practical involvement (such as a vaccine or antibiotic) must be available to interrupt transmission of the infective agent. The disease which is to be eradicated should be clearly identifiable, and an accurate diagnostic tool should exist. Economic considerations, as well as societal and political support and commitment, are other crucial factors that determine eradication feasibility. Smallpox and Rinderpest are the two infectious diseases which have been successfully eradicated.