The proper way engage in Smallpox prevention is something everyone should know about. If you have been exposed to Smallpox contact your doctor or community medical center immediately for assistance.
The Smallpox prevention program, via mass vaccination programs, is now inactive in the United States. Until the year 1972, all children were vaccinated against Smallpox before entering public schools. If you started school after 1972 you may have not been immunized. Check with your family doctor or refer to your medical history if you are uncertain about your vaccination status.
Smallpox prevention in the United States has changed its priority of mass vaccination. This is because the vaccine does not prevent Smallpox for the lifetime of the patient. Additionally, there are scientifically proven serious side effect risks for a small percentage of those who are vaccinated.
If you are exposed to Smallpox and have not been previously vaccinated, get medical attention as soon as possible. When an person who has not been vaccinated is exposed to the Smallpox virus there is only a three day window open to greatly reduce the severity of this deadly disease. If it takes longer than three days to find a facility to give you a Smallpox vaccination, don't give up. Studies show that some people when given the injection up to seven days after initial exposure have reduced symptoms too.
If there is an outbreak of Smallpox and someone at your school or workplace is infected you should probably be vaccinated if you have never received the Smallpox vaccination before. The Center of Disease Control would implement a policy of ring vaccinations. That means all exposed people who have had contact with infected persons would be evaluated for vaccination.
Infected persons must be isolated to prevent the spread of Smallpox.