Prelims 2014 · Science and Technology · Question 72
Consider the following diseases: 1. Diphtheria 2. Chickenpox 3. Smallpox. Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?
Answer
3 only
1. Diphtheria — Not eradicated in India; it still occurs sporadically and is controlled through vaccination. Verdict: Incorrect.
2. Chickenpox — Not eradicated in India; varicella continues to occur, though usually as a vaccine-preventable disease. Verdict: Incorrect.
3. Smallpox — Eradicated globally in 1980, and India became smallpox-free earlier through the eradication programme. Verdict: Correct.
Hence, only 3 has been eradicated in India.