The virus can be isolated intracellular or extracellular. Both are infectious. Proteolytic treatment of virus enhances infectivity. Fusion between virus outer membrane and cell plasma membrane. Virus core released into the cytoplasm.
Replication occurs in cytoplasm, even in enucleated cells.
Virus matures before shedding. Virus multiplies in epidermal cells. Can detect inclusions known as Guarnieri bodies. Cause cellular hyperplasia before cells undergo necrosis. This gives rise to pock.