Smallpox justifiably earned the reputation as one of the most virulent diseases known to mankind. In 1967, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a global smallpox vaccination campaign, which led to the eradication of the disease in 1979. The smallpox vaccine, derived from a virus known as vaccinia, induces an immune response, which protects against the disease. Although the vaccine cannot cause smallpox, it can yield various side effects.
Mild to Moderate Side Effects
While most vaccines are given the subcutaneous (SQ) or intramuscular (IM) route, the smallpox vaccine is administered with a bifurcated needle that vigorously punctures the skin. 4 to 8 days after vaccination a pus-filled blister will form at the puncture site and will eventually turn into a scab. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), most people experience mild to moderate symptoms such as a sore arm, fever of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, headaches, body ache, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The CDC also reports that 1 to 5 percent of those vaccinated may become ill enough to miss a day or two of work. Generalized vaccinia results when the virus spreads from the vaccination site to other parts of the body. Aside from the unpleasant appearance, this benign condition does not ordinarily cause health problems.
Severe to Life Threatening Side Effects
Severe or life threatening side effects after vaccination do not occur often. To decrease the chance of a serious reaction, the health care provider should know of all past and present health conditions prior to vaccination. For instance, someone with a history of eczema may develop a severe rash that covers the body and can lead to scarring or even death. According to the CDC, this can effect 1 out of 26,000 vaccinated. Myocarditis, an inflammatory condition of the heart muscle, can occur in about 1 out of 10,000 vaccinated. Encephalitis, which can lead to permanent brain damage and death, can afflict about 1 out of 83,000 vaccinated. As listed by the CDC, symptoms of a severe side effect can include shortness of breath, wheezing, eye infection, seizures, confusion, chest pain, and other unexpected health problems that occur after vaccination.
Side Effects in Those Not Vaccinated
Anyone that has not received the vaccination can experience all mentioned side effects if they come in contact with someone's vaccination site or items that have touched the site (e.g. bandages). The person receiving the vaccine should follow all post vaccination care instructions given by their health care provider to prevent exposing others.
Member Comments