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June 24, 2002

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"How to Prepare for a Smallpox Attack"

New York Times (www.nytimes.com) (06/23/02) P. 4-12

In an editorial, the New York Times expresses disappointment at an expert committee's recommendation that the smallpox vaccine be made available only to those expected to respond to a bioterror attack and not to the general public.  Though the committee expressed confidence that any smallpox attack could be contained by rushing vaccine to an area where smallpox cases were detected and vaccinating everyone who had contact with the victims, the editorial says that under some circumstances, such as delivery of smallpox by aerosol, an epidemic could spread much more rapidly than any outbreaks the public health system has previously encountered.  The editorial concludes that all Americans should have the option of taking the vaccine if they so desire.

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