What exactly is the vaccine against smallpox?
The vaccine contains a live virus called vaccinia, which is very closely related to the smallpox virus (variola). Therefore, the vaccine cannot cause smallpox. The vaccine is a weakened, or attenuated virus. Thus, it can cause significant vaccine adverse reactions, and rarely death, more so in persons with predisposing conditions (relative contraindications to vaccination – see the next question below). Vaccination is given with a special bifurcated needle that is not difficult to learn how to use (WHC has training demonstrations (live and videotaped) and some additional needles). The vaccine site (deltoid muscle) must be covered with two semipermeable membrane dressings (e.g., Tegaderm), gauze, & clothing to protect the live vaccinia virus from being transmitted to other persons-contacts. In 2002 the smallpox vaccine will be offered on a VOLUNTARY basis. It will be given under FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) protocol only, and thus will require informed consent, close monitoring fo
