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Smallpox Vaccinations

Due to concerns about spreading the live virus used in the smallpox vaccine, people with psoriasis that is active (showing lesions) should NOT get vaccinated against smallpox, nor should anyone without psoriasis who is living in the same home as someone with active psoriasis. People on immunosuppressive therapies such as methotrexate or cyclosporin should also NOT be vaccinated.

If you actually become infected with smallpox, the above does not apply.

As with anything else, always speak with a qualified doctor about your particular case, and whether or not the possible risks outweigh the possible benefits.

Resources:

• CDC:
  • ACIP Smallpox Vaccination Recommendations
  • People Who Should NOT Get the Smallpox Vaccine
  • Smallpox Vaccination: An Important Decision

• Clinical Policy for the DoD Smallpox Vaccination Program (SVP)
• Exemptions from Vaccination: Some people should not get smallpox vaccine, except under emergency situations.
• Flu Vaccination for Psoriasis Patients
• Information about smallpox vaccination for Medical and Public Health response personnel considering smallpox pre-event vaccination
• Information for Medical and Public Health Response Personnel Considering Smallpox Vaccination
• National Psoriasis Foundation
• NJDHSS Smallpox Vaccination Preparedness: Vaccine Education
• People Who Should NOT Get the Smallpox Vaccine
• Psoriatics Should Say "No" to Smallpox Vaccine
• Science Blog
• Smallpox: Vaccine May Be Off Limits to One-Third of U.S. Residents
• Smallpox (Vaccinia) Vaccine Contraindications
• Smallpox Vaccination Initial Note
• The Smallpox Vaccine Decision
• Smallpox Vaccine Safe for Flakers?
• Some Should Say 'No' to Smallpox Vaccine
• Some troops may have to skip smallpox vaccine
• US Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine
• Where's My Smallpox Vaccine