Underdosing of smallpox vaccines Save
ICD-10 code: T50.B16
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Underdosing of Smallpox Vaccines: What You Need to Know
Smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the variola virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared smallpox eradicated in 1980, thanks to the widespread use of smallpox vaccines. However, there are still concerns about the underdosing of smallpox vaccines.
Underdosing occurs when a person receives a lower dose of the vaccine than recommended by the manufacturer. This can happen for various reasons, such as improper storage or administration of the vaccine. Underdosing can reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine and increase the risk of infection.
If you are planning to get vaccinated against smallpox, it is important to ensure that you receive the correct dose. Here are some things you need to know:
- Know the recommended dose: The recommended dose for the smallpox vaccine is 0.5 mL for adults and 0.1 mL for children. Make sure that the healthcare professional administering the vaccine is aware of this.
- Check the expiration date: Check the expiration date of the vaccine before getting vaccinated. Expired vaccines may not be effective.
- Ask about storage: Ask the healthcare professional about the storage conditions of the vaccine. The vaccine should be stored at the recommended temperature to maintain its effectiveness.
- Be aware of possible side effects: The smallpox vaccine can cause side effects such as fever, rash, and soreness at the injection site. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Follow up: After getting vaccinated, follow up with your healthcare professional to ensure that you have received the correct dose and that the vaccine was effective.
Smallpox vaccines are crucial in preventing the spread of this deadly disease. However, underdosing can reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine and increase the risk of infection. By following the steps above, you can ensure that you receive the correct dose and protect yourself from smallpox.