You may have heard of Smallpox (smallpox) and Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox ). Although these are not very common in our country now, they can be very dangerous if they spread. So, the best and scientifically proven way to protect yourself from these diseases is to get vaccinated. Today we are going to talk about the special vaccine that protects you from both these diseases called Smallpox and Mpox.
What actually happens with this vaccine?
Simply put, this is a vaccine that is given to reduce the risk of smallpox and measles. The most important thing is that this is not a treatment for someone who already has these diseases. It is something that is given as protection before the disease develops. Sometimes, even with the vaccine, there may be a small chance of developing the disease. But even then, the symptoms are very rare, and the disease does not become severe.
Imagine that our body has an army, we call it the immune system . What this vaccine does is train our immune system to recognize the virus for those two diseases before it actually enters the body. It's like training before a battle. Then, if the virus actually comes, our body will be ready to face it.
This vaccine is most commonly known by the brand name JYNNEOS. If you want to know if you can use this vaccine for other reasons, you can ask your doctor about it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Before getting this vaccine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition, as some conditions require special care when administering this vaccine.
| Your health condition | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| Fever or any infectious condition | Vaccination can put a strain on the immune system when your body is already fighting another infection. Your doctor may decide to wait until you are well before giving you the vaccine. |
| If you have had fainting before | Some people may feel dizzy when receiving the injection. If you tell the medical staff about this in advance, they can be prepared for it. |
| Having a weakened immune system | If your immune system is weakened by diseases like HIV, cancer, or other medications, the way your body responds to the vaccine may change. |
| Allergies to other vaccines, medications, foods, or substances | This is important to know if you are allergic to anything in the vaccine. This can help prevent severe allergic reactions. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | Special care is taken when administering vaccines during pregnancy. The doctor will explain to you the advantages and disadvantages at that time. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | You should talk to your doctor and decide whether any components of the vaccine pass to the baby through breast milk and whether they have any effect. |
How is this vaccine given and what precautions should be followed?
This vaccine is not something you can take home. It is a subcutaneous injection. It is given only in a hospital or clinic by a doctor, nurse, or other trained medical staff.
To get full protection from this vaccine, you need to get two doses . So after you get the first dose, remember the exact date of the next dose. If possible, set a reminder on your phone.
Before you get the vaccine, you will be given a Vaccine Information Statement (VIS). Please read the information in it carefully, as it may be updated.
What to do if you miss a dose?
If for any reason you are unable to take the second dose on the scheduled date, do not miss it. Call your doctor as soon as possible and schedule an appointment for the next available dose. It is essential to complete both doses to be fully protected.
What if the dose of the vaccine is increased?
This is very unlikely as it is administered by medical staff. However, if you think you may have received an overdose of the vaccine, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital or the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) at the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with this vaccine
If you are taking any medication that suppresses your immune system , be sure to tell your doctor about it.
Some medications can reduce the body's ability to fight disease. For example, chemotherapy , steroids, and transplant rejection medications. If you are taking any of these medications, you should tell your doctor before receiving this vaccine. It is also a good idea to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and traditional medicines).
Things to be careful about after getting vaccinated
Even after getting vaccinated, it's a good idea to pay some attention to your health.
- Getting vaccinated during a serious illness: If you have a serious illness such as a high fever, cough, or cold , talk to your doctor about whether it is appropriate to get vaccinated at that time. The vaccine is usually given for minor illnesses such as a cold or diarrhea. However, in cases of serious illness, your doctor may decide to wait until you are better before giving you the vaccine.
- Heart inflammation: Some people who received the smallpox vaccine have reported developing heart inflammation. It is not yet known whether this will also happen with the new smallpox and Mpox vaccines. However, if you experience unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, joint pain, or swelling of the ankles or feet after getting the vaccine, seek medical advice immediately. Young boys in particular should be especially concerned about this.
What are the expected side effects?
As with any vaccine, some side effects may occur after receiving this vaccine. However, most of these are temporary and not serious.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately or go to a hospital. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Dizziness or lightheadedness | Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, unable to stand. |
| Symptoms that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Pain at the injection site | Redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site. |
| General inconveniences | Feeling lethargic, tired, achy, muscle aches, headaches, nausea, and a feverish feeling. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- The smallpox and Mpox vaccines are given to prevent the disease from developing, not to treat it.
- Before getting vaccinated, be sure to tell your doctor about your complete health history, medications you take, and allergies.
- It is very important to receive both doses of the vaccine on time for complete protection.
- If you experience severe allergic reactions or heart-related symptoms (such as chest pain, difficulty breathing) after receiving the vaccine, seek medical advice immediately.
- Most side effects, such as soreness at the injection site and feeling unwell, are normal and will go away within a few days.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts here.
Add Your Comment