How is the smallpox vaccine administered?
To administer the smallpox vaccine, the World Health Organization recommends use of a bifurcated needle. Typically, the vaccine is given in the deltoid area of the nondominant arm in order to avoid limitation of use should a reaction to the vaccine occur. Unless the injection site is grossly contaminated, cleansing of the area is generally not required. If cleansing of the injection site is needed, use of soap and water is preferred. Cleansing with acetone or alcohol should be avoided as these substances can inactivate the vaccine. Once the site is prepared (if necessary), the bifurcated needle is dipped into a multi-dose vaccine vial; a droplet of vaccine should be observed in the needle once removed from the vial. The vaccinator should then make 3 (for primary vaccination) to 15 (for revaccination) perpendicular insertions into the injection site in rapid succession. The insertions should be confined to an area approximately 5 mm in diameter. The injection procedure should be perform
