Why is smallpox vaccine being offered to all hospitals in Utah?
If there were a smallpox outbreak in Utah, it is likely that there would be more than a few cases. As we can not predict which hospitals might see the first cases, it is important to be sure that all hospitals that care for acutely ill patients have staff available who are protected against the smallpox virus, and who would be available to take care of these patients until other staff could be vaccinated.