# Smallpox reached Americas via Europeans, genomic study finds

Researchers analyzing ancient DNA from smallpox victims in the Americas found the virus was introduced by European colonizers, settling a long-standing debate. The genetic evidence directly links the disease's arrival to European contact rather than earlier origins. This clarifies how colonization shaped devastating epidemics in the New World.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Science
- [Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-02366-y) — 2026-07-31