Current Status of Smallpox Vaccine
1999
Current Status of Smallpox Vaccine
publication
Author Information
Author(s): James W. LeDuc, John Becher
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Conclusion
The existing national stockpile of smallpox vaccine could be effectively used in the event of a smallpox virus release, but challenges remain in maintaining adequate supplies of vaccine and treatment for adverse reactions.
Supporting Evidence
- The current U.S. stockpile contains approximately 15.4 million doses of vaccinia vaccine.
- More than 90% of susceptible persons respond to vaccinia virus with a titer of 107 pocks/ml.
- The entire stockpile of VIG has been placed on hold while the cause of a slight pink discoloration is investigated.
Takeaway
There are not enough smallpox vaccines and treatments available if there is an emergency, but the vaccines we have can still help control the spread of the disease.
Limitations
The stockpile of vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) is limited and has been placed on hold due to quality concerns.
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