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Why do many people have a small scar on their left arm?

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Smallpox vaccination was almost always given on the upper left arm to facilitate monitoring of the vaccine’s response without interfering with the patient’s daily activities. This scar has become a common sign, especially among those born before the 1970s, when mass smallpox vaccination campaigns ended.

A mark of protection

scar

The next time you see that tiny scar, remember that it’s more than just a mark on the skin. It’s the visible sign of a fight against a once-fearful, now-eradicated disease. This tiny mark reflects a medical battle and a collective success for public health, a reminder of the power of vaccines and advances in disease prevention.

In short, this scar represents much more than an imperfection; it is the symbol of a historic medical victory.

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