•http://www.jennermuseum.com

In 1980, the World Health Organisation declared that smallpox had been eradicated, but two stocks of the virus remain and smallpox is still of concern owing to potential use of the causative agent variola virus in bioterrorism. It was the work of the English physician Edward Jenner (1749–1823) that led to the development of a vaccine and the subsequent eradication of smallpox.

If you want to find out more about Edward Jenner, a good place to start might be the web site of The Jenner Museum in Gloucestershire, which was opened to the public in 1985.

This web site details the life and work of Edward Jenner, from his early life in Gloucestershire to his famous work on smallpox — or as Jenner called it 'the speckled monster' — and vaccination. Jenner's work on cowpox as a vaccine for smallpox led to the introduction of compulsory vaccination in 1853. There are some intriguing additional titbits about some of Jenner's other interests, including fossils, hibernation of hedgehogs and the nesting habits of cuckoos. You can also take a look at his family tree and find out what the museum facilities have to offer for visiting student groups.

The site is a useful educational resource for all ages — one section provides basic background information on the human immune system, vaccination, transplantation and defects in immunity, and a glossary of terms. This section also includes a topical opinion poll with questions about vaccination that should be useful for stimulating discussion. By answering the questions, you can access the poll results so far. Check the web site for further information!