What are the signs and symptoms of a serious reaction to the smallpox vaccine?
• Serious reactions: Serious reactions usually happen to people who are given the smallpox vaccine for the first time. • Allergic reaction. This may appear as hives that have spread all over the body. Hives are red, itchy bumps with burning feeling on the skin. • Red rash or sores in an area other than the vaccinated area. This often occurs with spread of the virus from the vaccinated area. The genitals, face, eyes are common areas infected. Infection of the eyes with the vaccinia virus may lead to problems with your sight or blindness. • Widespread rash or sores. This may happen when the virus enters the blood. • Very serious reactions: • Damage and death of the skin and tissues under the vaccinated area. • Skin rashes in people with a skin condition, such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. • Swelling of the brain.
