Ever Wondered What This Nickel-Sized Scar On Your Upper Left Arm Means? This Is The Answer
#1 If You Have This Scar, You Have Been Vaccinated
Take a look at your upper left arm. If you see a scar like this one, it means you have received a smallpox vaccination. But why is that important?
#2 Smallpox Was A Deadly Disease
It took three decades before smallpox was finally eradicated. Before that day, people had to suffer through fever and weakness, not to mention the horrific physical scars it left on people.
#3 Many People Died From This Dreadful Disease
Not too long ago, many people lost their lives because of this disease. It was only due to this vaccine that the deaths were halted. You can see the distrust in this woman's face as she stares at the doctor, but in the end this sometimes painful vaccination resulted in their lives being spared.
#4 It Was Seen As Proof Of US Citizenship
People could tell a travelling American by this scar on his or her left arm. It was a badge of citizenship, as all US citizens had received the vaccine.
#5 The Scar Was Seen As A Badge Of Trust
People without this scar were usually banned from entering the United States back in the day. Also, if you didn't have the scar, you were not allowed to attend school, go to offices, or even go out in public. The risk for infection was too great.
#6 Ali Maow Maalin
Due to a hardcore effort by the World Health Organization, smallpox was completely wiped off the face of the earth in 1977. The last known case of smallpox was exhibited by Ali Maow Maalin, A Somalian in 1977.
#7 This Scar Is Caused By The BCG Vaccine
The characteristic scar is left by BCG Vaccine, or the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin. It is only this vaccine that leaves a scar that can easily identify someone who is smallpox free.
