The smallpox vaccine is a vaccine that protects against infection with the smallpox virus. It was the first vaccine to be developed and is considered one of the most successful vaccines ever created. The vaccine was developed by Edward Jenner in 1796 and is still in use today. The World Health Organization declared smallpox to be eradicated in 1980, after a successful global vaccination campaign. The vaccine is made from a virus called vaccinia, which is related to the smallpox virus. It is given through an injection and can provide immunity against the virus for up to 10 years.
Smallpox vaccines are a unique chapter in medical history. They were the first successful vaccines developed and played a crucial role in eradicating smallpox, the deadliest disease humanity ever faced. Here's a breakdown:
Types:
- Traditional: Made from vaccinia virus, a milder relative of the variola virus that causes smallpox. This type is no longer routinely used due to potential side effects.
- Modern: There are two licensed vaccines in the US - ACAM2000 and Jynneos (Imvamune/Imvanex). These use safer versions of the vaccinia virus created through modern techniques.
How it Works:
Smallpox vaccines don't contain the variola virus itself, so they can't cause smallpox. Instead, they expose the body to a weakened vaccinia virus. This triggers the immune system to develop defenses against the vaccinia virus. However, these defenses also provide protection against the similar variola virus, should someone be exposed to smallpox.
Historical Significance:
Developed by Edward Jenner in 1796, the smallpox vaccine revolutionized public health. Through widespread vaccination campaigns, smallpox was eradicated globally by 1980, the only human disease to achieve this feat.