Unfilled out typed application form from Public Health Services Laboratory, form PHSL 1a, to be completed when sending a sample from suspected British cases of smallpox, for identification at the Central Public Health Laboratory, 1970-1979

Early diagnosis of smallpox is one way of helping to prevent the spread of the disease. This kit was used by doctors in general practice surgeries and by school nurses. Samples were taken from skin complaints, including rashes, pustules and scabs which may have been consistent with a stage in the development of smallpox. Any fluid from the skin was collected using the rubber teat and capillary tubes.

The samples were sent by post to the Virus Reference Laboratory at the Central Public Laboratory in London. It could take anywhere between two and 72 hours for the results of any tests to be known.