In May 1983, the distribution of smallpox vaccine to civilians
was
discontinued by the only active United States-licensed manufacturer
(1). However, smallpox vaccination is still recommended to protect
civilian laboratory personnel exposed to orthopox viruses
(particularly variola (smallpox) and vaccinia viruses) (2) and
persons
involved in producing or testing smallpox vaccine. CDC will be the
only source of smallpox vaccine for civilians. Vaccine will be
provided only to laboratories meeting the sole remaining indication
(2) for administration to eligible employees under the supervision
of
a physician. Vaccine will be shipped to physicians responsible for
vaccinating at-risk workers. Requests for vaccine should be sent
to:
Immunobiologics Activity
Center for Infectious Diseases
Building 6, Room 159
Centers for Disease Control
Atlanta, Georgia 30333
Attn: Julia Wood
(404) 329-3356
Reported by International Health Program Office; Div of Host
Factors,
Div of Viral Diseases, Center for Infectious Diseases; Div of
Immunization, Center for Prevention Svcs, CDC.
References
CDC. Smallpox vaccine no longer available for
civilians--United
States. MMWR 1983;32:387.
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