vaccinia

noun

1. a local infection induced in humans by inoculation with the virus causing cowpox in order to confer resistance to smallpox; normally lasts three weeks and leaves a pitted scar

   Synonyms

   • vaccina, variola vaccine, variola vaccinia, variola vaccina

   Less specific

   • infection

   More specific

   • progressive vaccinia, vaccinia gangrenosa

2. a viral disease of cattle causing a mild skin disease affecting the udder; formerly used to inoculate humans against smallpox

   Synonyms

   • cowpox

   Less specific

   • animal disease, pox