The variola vaccine is also known as the smallpox vaccine as it was designed to protect people from smallpox. It is made using live vaccinia virus, which is a close relative of the smallpox virus. The vaccine is administered through a single puncture with a bifurcated needle. Variolation vaccine, cowpox vaccine, and vaccinia vaccine are some of the synonyms for the variola vaccine. Cowpox vaccine was the first form of variolation and is considered the precursor to the modern smallpox vaccine. Vaccinia vaccine is a newer variant of the smallpox vaccine that is used in some countries. Regardless of its name, the variola vaccine has played a significant role in controlling and eradicating smallpox worldwide.