Smallpox is a highly infectious and deadly disease caused by the variola virus. It is not caused by bacteria, but by a virus. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, so smallpox cannot be controlled with antibiotics.
However, vaccination is an effective way to prevent the spread of smallpox. The smallpox vaccine was developed in the late 18th century and has been used to successfully eradicate smallpox globally. The vaccine works by introducing a weakened form of the virus into the body, which triggers an immune response and provides immunity against the disease.
Smallpox is not a water-borne infection. It is spread through the air by respiratory droplets or by direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids or contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing.