What is Smallpox Vaccine, Vaccinia Vaccine injection?
SMALLPOX VACCINE, VACCINIA VACCINE (Dryvax® and others) protects against infection with the virus that causes smallpox (variola virus). The vaccine is made from vaccinia which is a ‘pox’-type virus related to smallpox. The smallpox vaccine contains ‘live’ vaccinia virus. Vaccination sites must be cared for properly to prevent the virus from spreading. Because the vaccine does not contain smallpox, you cannot get smallpox from the vaccine. After receiving the vaccine, immunity is high for 3—5 years and decreases thereafter. If a person is vaccinated again later, immunity lasts even longer. The vaccine has been effective in preventing smallpox in 95% of those vaccinated. Additionally, it has been proven to prevent or substantially reduce infection when given within a few days of exposure to smallpox. The smallpox vaccine can only be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
