Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Variolation
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Variolation: The old practice of inoculating someone with the virus of smallpox to produce immunity to the disease. Lady Mary Wortley Montagu introduced this practice into England from Turkey in 1721. Unfortunately, the identification of a suitable strain of the virus was not an exact science and grievous disease and death from variolation were not uncommon. From variola, a synonym for smallpox.
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