New Smallpox Immunization Policy Issued

LEAWOOD, Kan. — The American Academy of Family Physicians now advocates immunizing a limited number of people at the federal, state and local level who are pre-designated by bioterrorism and public health authorities. These people would be called upon to investigate smallpox cases and contain outbreaks should they occur. This is in addition to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Interim Smallpox Response Plan and Guidelines that the Academy endorsed last fall.

In case of an outbreak, then ring containment immunization (immunizing all people the patient came in contact with prior to diagnosis and quarantine) should receive highest priority with other immunization programs initiated if needed. If federal authorities determine that the threat level has changed, then a more aggressive immunization program should be considered.

The Academy does not advocate a widespread smallpox vaccination at this time. The complications and potential death that could occur by vaccinating all people in America outweigh the current risk of a bioterrorist attack. It is important to note that the smallpox vaccine contains live vaccinia virus. The person vaccinated against the disease can actually spread the virus up until the time the injection site heals (up to six weeks).

“This approach is appropriately aggressive in protecting those most at risk while also protecting the public’s health,” said Warren A. Jones, M.D., AAFP President.