Disease Eradication

Disease eradication is the complete and permanent reduction of a disease to zero cases worldwide, eliminating the need for ongoing public health interventions. It involves coordinated efforts such as vaccination, surveillance, and treatment to interrupt transmission. Once eradicated, the disease no longer exists naturally, meaning it cannot reappear unless reintroduced from outside sources. Smallpox is an example of a successfully eradicated disease. Achieving eradication requires sustained global commitment, effective healthcare infrastructure, and proven prevention methods to ensure cases disappear entirely.