Definition

A type of virus related to cowpox and smallpox, often used in vaccines, which can cause mild skin reactions and sometimes other symptoms in vaccinated individuals.

Example

After receiving the smallpox vaccine, she experienced a mild reaction due to the vaccinia virus.

Conversation

Have you heard about the vaccinia vaccine for smallpox?

Yeah, I just read that it can cause some mild reactions in people.

Right! I was surprised to learn it can lead to a rash or even a fever.

It's good to know the side effects, so people can be prepared.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vaccinia is derived from "vaccinus" (meaning of or from cows) which comes from "vacca" (meaning cow in Latin). The term refers to the cowpox virus, which is related to the development of the smallpox vaccine. Thus, vaccinia relates to the cowpox virus used in vaccination.

Memory Tip

Think of 'vacca' meaning cow, and remember that 'vaccinia' refers to a virus related to cows, specifically in the context of vaccination.

Visually Confused Words