Smallpox Vaccinations

Re “U.S. Names 4 Countries Hiding Smallpox Virus,” Nov. 5: During a biology class discussion about vaccinations (at San Jacinto High School) I was surprised to find that quite a few of my students reported that they had been inoculated for smallpox and had the scars to prove it. More than one student told me with authority that the presence of the scar is how they can tell if a Mexican American was born in Mexico or the U.S.

I remember trying unsuccessfully to get my own children vaccinated for smallpox in the ‘80s. Maybe a trip south of the border is in order for my adult children.

Melody McBroom

San Jacinto