Smallpox, Big Dilemma

Smallpox is only kept in two locations in the world, the United States and Russia.  There is a difficult debate about what to do with the remaining samples.  On the one hand, there are concerns of terrorism, mistake, natural disaster or any other set of circumstances that could start an epidemic.

On the other hand, scientists argue that keeping samples allows them to prepare vaccines and learn how to fight the disease and put it to rest forever.  There is a lot to be gained from that movement, but is it worth the risk?  I'm inclined to say yes, but in awe of the consequences if this were to ever go wrong.

It's easy to forget something so simple killed millions of people.  Their deaths were painful and terrifying, and medical science won a major war. We should never underestimate the power of such a disease, especially in third world countries where doctor visits are only for the wealthy.