Smallpox vaccine

[Ernesto]

In the United States, routine vaccination with the smallpox vaccine was stopped in 1972 because smallpox had been eliminated. Because the vaccine’s protective effects wear off after about 10 years, most people are now susceptible to smallpox.
Recent fears about the possible use of smallpox by terrorists have led to the suggestion that smallpox vaccination resume. If smallpox vaccination is resumed, it is likely to be recommended only for people in the area of a smallpox outbreak. Some military personnel are now vaccinated (based on their risk of exposure if smallpox were to be used as a biological weapon), and enough smallpox vaccine has been prepared to vaccinate everyone in the United States if needed.
The smallpox vaccine contains live vaccinia virus, which is related to and provides immunity against the smallpox virus.
The vaccine is most effective when given very early after exposure. However, the vaccine may also be beneficial if given in the first days after symptoms appear. There is no proven treatment for smallpox, but some antiviral drugs (such as cidofovir ) may help treat it or prevent it from getting worse.
For more information, see Centers for Disease Control and Prevention