We've all heard of smallpox. But the good news is that it's now been eradicated from the entire world. So you might be wondering, "So why are we still talking about this smallpox vaccine?" There are actually a few specific reasons for that. Sometimes, people who work in laboratories, in the military, or in emergencies like a bioterrorism attack may need this vaccine for protection. So, even though it's not a vaccine that's usually given to everyone, it's important to be aware of it.
Simply put, what is this smallpox vaccine?
This is a special vaccine that is given to prevent smallpox virus infection. The most important thing we need to understand is that this is a live vaccine . This means that this vaccine contains a live virus that is related to the smallpox virus, but has been weakened. This allows our body's immune system to recognize that virus and produce the antibodies needed to fight it if the real smallpox virus comes. In Sri Lanka and many countries around the world, this vaccine is known by the brand name `ACAM2000`.
This is not like a regular injection, it is injected under the skin in a special way. And it is only given by a doctor or a trained health professional.
The important thing is that this is not a vaccine that is usually given to everyone. It is only given in very specific cases, on medical advice.
Things you should definitely tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Because this is a live vaccine, it may be risky for people with certain health conditions to get it. Therefore, it is extremely important to discuss this clearly with your doctor before you are given this vaccine.
| Your health condition | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol | There is a small risk of heart inflammation after the vaccine, so if you have a history of heart disease, your doctor should be aware of this. |
| Diabetes | Diabetes can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of skin infections. |
| Immune system problems | This live vaccine can be dangerous for people with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing cancer treatment, or those with weakened immune systems for other reasons. |
| Skin diseases (especially eczema) | If you or someone in your household has eczema or other severe skin conditions, the vaccine virus can spread to the skin and cause a serious condition. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | This vaccine can cause serious harm to the baby in the womb. Therefore, this vaccine is not given during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother (Breast-feeding) | You should also tell your doctor about this, as it can affect the baby through breast milk. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | This is important to know if you are allergic to anything in the vaccine. |
Can others be infected after getting the vaccine?
Yes, this is the most special thing about this vaccine and the thing we need to be very careful about. The injection site will form a small wound, which will later scab over and form a scab. Until this scab forms and falls off on its own (usually takes 2-3 weeks), the virus at the injection site can be transmitted to others.
Therefore, if you get this vaccine, you should follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
- Keep the injection site well covered.
- If you touch that area, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
- Avoid close contact with people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, people with skin conditions such as eczema, and babies under one year old.
What are the expected side effects?
Like any vaccine, this one can have side effects. Some are normal, but there are some things we need to be very careful about.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor or the Emergency Department (ETU) immediately | |
|---|---|
| Symptoms of Myocarditis | Chest pain, shortness of breath, unusual tiredness, dizziness, feeling like your heart is beating fast, fever, joint pain, swelling of the legs/ankles. |
| Severe allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Effects on the nervous system | Dizziness, loss of balance, confusion, difficulty speaking. |
| Severe skin reactions | Redness of the skin, blistering, peeling of the skin (even inside the mouth), blistering of the skin in other areas outside the injection site. |
| Eye problems | Eye redness, pain, infection, blurred vision, or changes in vision. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| General characteristics | Fever, malaise, body aches, headache. |
| The injection site | Pain, redness, itching, swelling. |
| Swelling of the ankle | Swelling of the neck, armpits, and groin areas. |
What to do if the dose of the vaccine is increased?
Since this vaccine is given in a hospital or clinic, there is little chance of overdose. However, if you suspect that you have been overdosed, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
This is a medicine for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason. This is especially true since it is a live vaccine, which increases the risk.
Take-Home Message
- The smallpox vaccine is not a routine vaccine given to everyone. It is a live virus vaccine that is given only in special cases and on medical advice.
- Before getting vaccinated, it is essential to tell your doctor about your complete medical history, especially heart disease, skin diseases (eczema), and immune system problems.
- This vaccine can be very harmful to pregnant women and the unborn baby.
- After getting the vaccine, there is a risk of spreading the virus to others until the injection site heals (2-3 weeks). Therefore, follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
- If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe skin reactions, contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU).
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