The smallpox vaccine is an unnecessary and dangerous form of action, and should thus be eliminated as a means of combating the virus. This conclusion is supported by the results of cohort studies, as well as our society’s need to adhere to the precautionary principle. Many people are under the misconception that since it is a vaccine it can do no harm, yet they are naive and have minimal means of obtaining accurate information. Since 1948, there have been no reported deaths caused by smallpox in the United States. Furthermore, there has not been a single case of smallpox throughout the world since the mid 1970s (Krasner). In fact, the only known strands in existence today are contained within laboratories, strictly for research purposes. Additionally, the side effects of the vaccine range from a sore arm, fever and body aches, to extremities as far as toxic or allergic reactions, spread of the vaccina virus (the virus used in the vaccine) to other parts of the body or individuals, and, finally, death (Department of Health and Human Services). Studies show that one in one thousand people experience serious reaction to the vaccine that require additional medical attention, while one in one million are at risk of death from the vaccination. Through various cohort studies, it was concluded that those predisposed to side effects range from anyone who has had a skin condition, a weakened immune system, pregnant or nursing women, children, and those with a heart condition. Also included are those with high cholesterol, diabetes, and cigarette smokers (Department of Health and Human Services). Given the high risk of side effects and the statistics that show that the vaccine has claimed more lives than the smallpox virus itself in the past fifty years, it seems evident that the smallpox vaccination should not be administered to the public. It poses as more of a risk than a safeguard and could cause more damage than good.
Sources:
Department of Health and Human...