Smallpox Vaccine Side Effects

To prevent the spread and re-occurrence of smallpox, a vaccine needed to be developed and put into use. Like every coin has two different sides, this was no exception. Though very helpful, the vaccination also came with a few of its own problems. But before we discuss that, let us first understand about smallpox.

What is Smallpox?

Smallpox is a contagious disease which can be quite severe and sometimes can prove to be fatal too. A person suffering from smallpox gets small boils or bumps on the face and all over the body. There is no specific treatment for smallpox. Hence, people go in for vaccination. People can suffer from vaccine reactions just like any other medication. However, the side effects vary from person to person depending upon their health conditions.

Side Effects of Smallpox Vaccine

The smallpox vaccine has different levels and categories of side effects that can affect individuals. We shall look into them in more detail.

Mild or Temperate Reactions

• The arm where the vaccine is given will appear red and swollen. It might look like a large skin boil with pus formation in it, which will drain in 2 - 3 days leaving a smallpox vaccine scar.
• The person might get mild fever after the vaccination is done.
• Some people do not get sleep after vaccination, which results in tiredness and headache.
• The sweat glands in the armpits become large and swollen (like boils), and might be painful.
• Some people might get boils and blisters on other parts of the body.

Intense or Severe Reactions

• The heart can be affected severely due to inflammation. This condition can be mild or serious depending upon the individual.
• Sometimes a person can suffer from rashes on the entire body if the virus spreads through the blood. This is also known as generalized vaccinia.
• There can also be a toxic rash or a rash due to allergy forming erythema multiforme (acute allergic reaction due to medication, illness and infection).
• A person might get sores and boils in a particular area if he touches it after touching the vaccinated area or another person who has been vaccinated. It mostly occurs on the face or the genital area. It can also affect the eyes leading to poor vision, damage or even blindness. Hence, it is advised to keep your hands clean and wash them immediately after vaccination.

You should consult a doctor immediately on occurrence of these reactions.

Near Fatal Reactions

These reactions are very hazardous and life-threatening.

• There can be skin infection due to tissue damage which can result in death. It is also known as vaccinia necrosum or progressive vaccinia.
• If an unborn baby is infected with vaccinia virus, it can lead to conditions like death of the child after delivery, stillbirth, premature delivery, and skin rash with scarring. However, it is a very rare case.
• Permanent brain damage (due to inflamed brain) which is also known as Encephalitis.
• People can also suffer from severe rash with eczema, which results in scars or death. It is also known as atopic dermatitis.

People suffering from certain skin conditions or a weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer from these reactions. Thus, it is advised to consult a doctor before going for smallpox vaccination.

Other Symptoms

• A person might suffer from breathing problems like shortness of breath.
• Pale skin, eye infection, or the vaccination area might not heal.
• There can be weakness, dizziness, prolonged headache and fever.
• A person might also suffer from unusual problems like seizures or confusion.
• Chest pain or unusual heartbeats are also among the noted side effects.

These side effects are also serious and should not be ignored. Consult a doctor immediately if you are suffering from any of these side effects after receiving the smallpox vaccine.

People who are not vaccinated can also suffer from these side effects if they physically come in contact with people suffering from the aforementioned symptoms, and touch the vaccinated area or their used towels, clothes or bandages. Thus, everyone around needs to take precautions.

Precautions to be Taken

• Cover the vaccinated area with a gauze bandage or a semi-permeable bandage which allows air to pass through but restricts the flow of fluids outside.
• Do not touch the vaccinated area as it can spread the infection to other body parts and other people.
• Change the bandage regularly (every 2 - 3 days) and keep the vaccinated area clean.
• Do not share things like towels or clothes with anyone else, especially if the items have come in contact with the infected area, as it may spread to other people.
• Keep the infected area dry.
• Avoid scratching the vaccinated area.
• Keep your clothes separately and do not mix it with other clothes.

These are some of the precautions you must take to prevent the spreading of side effects of smallpox vaccine. So, be healthy and prevent these side effects from affecting your life.