Smallpox vaccine overview

The smallpox vaccine helps the body develop immunity to smallpox. The vaccine is made from a virus called vaccinia which is a \u201cpox\u201d-type virus related to smallpox. The smallpox vaccine contains the \u201clive\u201d vaccinia virus\u2014not dead virus like many other vaccines. For that reason, the vaccination site must be cared for carefully to prevent the virus from spreading. Also, the vaccine can have side effects (see the section \u201cSmallpox Vaccine Safety\u201d in this fact sheet). The vaccine does not contain the smallpox virus and cannot give you smallpox.Currently, the United States has a big enough stockpile of smallpox vaccine to vaccinate everyone in the country who might need it in the event of an emergency. Production of new vaccine is underwayThe smallpox vaccine -- Length of protection -- Receiving the vaccine -- Post-vaccination care -- Benefit of vaccine following exposure -- Smallpox vaccine safety -- Smallpox vaccine availability.200