Fw: Smallpox vaccine not for everyone

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----- Original Message ----- From: ilena rose

Sent: Sunday, February 02, 2003 12:57 PM

Subject: Smallpox vaccine not for everyone

http://www.starnewspapers.com/star/spnews/news/02-sp8.htm

Smallpox vaccine not for everyone

Sunday, February 2, 2003

By Glen Leyden

The Star

The smallpox vaccine is not like a measles shot, and it's not for everybody. The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging health care workers with weak immune systems not to take the vaccine, which can cause severe side effects in a small number of patients. A two-pronged needle is dipped in a vaccine solution retaining droplets of the vaccinia virus. The live virus is similar to the smallpox virus but not nearly as deadly. Patients cannot contract smallpox from the vaccine. The needle is used to quickly prick the skin about 15 times. The shallow pricks cause a sore spot, and a couple drops of blood form on the wound, according to the IDPH. A red and itchy bump forms on the spot for several days. The bump becomes a blister within the first week, dries up and a scab is retained. About 95 percent of those vaccinated will resist the virus if exposed, according to Rene Santos, director of infection control at Ingalls Hospital in Harvey. In rare instances the vaccinia virus can be spread to other body parts or other people. Recipients should not touch the vaccination site or materials that come in contact with the wound. All those interested in taking the vaccine should consult their doctor. Some people are urged not to take the vaccine, including those with: eczema or atopic dermatitis. skin conditions such as burns, chickenpox, shingles, impetigo, herpes, severe acne or psoriasis. a weakened immune system, including those with cancer treatment, organ transplant, HIV/AIDS and other illnesses that can weaken the immune system. pregnancy or plans to become pregnant within one month of vaccination.

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