|
SMALLPOX VACCINE
Study finds problem in eczema sufferers that causes complications from smallpox vaccine
A study published in the March 2006 edition of Immunity details the findings of Howell et al who used lab grown human skin cells to demonstrate that an immune system protein called LL-37 is critical in stopping over-replication of vaccinia virus, the key component of smallpox vaccine. Production of LL-37 is minimal in people with atopic dermatitis (aka eczema) causing vaccinia virus to replicate in a poorly controlled manner. [link to pubmed abstract] (03-2006)Panels Find Vaccines May Relate to Reservist's Illness, Death
The Department of Defense today announced findings of two independent panels of medical experts who evaluated the possibility of a relationship between vaccination and the illnesses or deaths of four individuals. Among the four cases, the panels found only one case where vaccination may have contributed to an illness that led to death. [link to complete Nov 19, 2003 Press Release]Update on Smallpox Adverse Events including links and information on the IOM meetings on Smallpox Vaccine.
Information on smallpox in general as well as specific information on smallpox vaccine issues regarding people with autoimmune issues was prepared by Neal Halsey and Noel Rose for the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association [link to AARDA]
Bifurcated Needles for the Administration of Smallpox Vaccine Workshop
The Institute for Vaccine Safety held a workshop on November 27, 2001 with experts from government, pharmaceutical companies and academia to discuss methods of administering smallpox vaccine. Historically, bifurcated needles have been the preferred method of administering smallpox vaccine. OSHA regulations have been implemented in recent years to reduce needlestick injuries. Bifurcated needles are safe and effective for administering smallpox vaccine; but proposed modifications could make the needles easier to handle and provide individuals sterilized devices. Recommendations from the workshop are being implemented.
Click here for Adobe Acrobat (PDF) file of workshop summary.Developing New Smallpox Vaccines - CDC Perspective Paper
The CDC has issued a Perspective on Developing New Smallpox Vaccines by Steven R. Rosenthal, Michael Merchlinsky, Cynthia Kleppinger, and Karen L. Goldenthal (FDA, Rockville) which "describes, from a regulatory perspective, the various strains of VACV, the adverse events associated with calf lymph-propagated smallpox vaccine, the issues regarding selection and use of cell substrates for vaccine production, and the issues involved in demonstrating evidence of safety and efficacy." Emerging Infectious Diseases 2001;7(6).
Additional information from CDC on Smallpox
This page was last updated on January 23, 2008
© 2006 Institute for Vaccine Safety
