Who Should NOT be Vaccinated?
Some people are at greater risk for serious side effects from the smallpox vaccine. Individuals who have any of the following conditions, or live with someone who does, should NOT get the smallpox vaccine unless they have been exposed to the smallpox virus.
In addition, individuals should not get the smallpox vaccine if they:
- Are allergic to the vaccine or any of its ingredients.
- Are less than 18 years of age.
- Have a moderate or severe short-term illness. (These people should wait until they are completely recovered to get the vaccine.)
- Are currently breastfeeding.
What are the higher risk conditions?
- Eczema or atopic dermatitis. (This is true even if the condition is mild or was experienced as a child, and is not currently active.)
- Skin conditions such as burns, chickenpox, shingles, impetigo, herpes, severe acne, or psoriasis. (People with any of these conditions should not get the vaccine until they have completely healed.)
- Weakened immune system. (Cancer treatment, an organ transplant, HIV, or medications to treat autoimmune disorders and other illnesses can weaken the immune system.)
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant within one month of vaccination.
- History of heart disease; high blood pressure; high blood cholesterol; diabetes or high blood sugar, having a close relative (mother, father, brother, or sister) who had a heart condition before the age of 50; and, are a current smoker.
If offered the smallpox vaccine, individuals should tell their immunization provider if they have any of the above conditions, or even if they suspect they might.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: www.health.state.ny.us
QUESTIONS? CALL (888) 246-2675 (English) (888) 246-2857 (Español) (866) 874-2646 (TTY).
Source: Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and New York State Department of Health
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