Smallpox Vaccination: An Update

The purpose of this course is to help members of the interdisciplinary team (IDT) make informed decisions about participation in the voluntary pre-event vaccination program and to answer questions of patients, family, and friends about the vaccine. In addition, the IDT will have necessary information about smallpox should a terrorist act result in the transmission of the smallpox virus. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Relate the historical significance of the smallpox vaccine as well as the disease of smallpox, its symptoms, and its outcomes.
2. Describe the technique of ring vaccination.
3. Discuss the vaccine currently available, and describe the immunity developed by vaccinia.
4. Identify four contraindications to receiving vaccinia in a pre-event scenario.
5. List the steps and technique for administration of vaccinia, including the types of dressings recommended for the vaccine site and appropriate use of each.
6. Enumerate the steps for effective handwashing.
7. Describe the response and expected reactions to vaccinia.
8. Identify complications of vaccinia and the appropriate treatments.
9. List adverse events associated with vaccinia and available treatments.
10. Discuss cultural factors that affect the informed consent process.

This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.