Defending against smallpox: a focus on vaccines. (1st September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Voigt, Emily A.; Kennedy, Richard B.; Poland, Gregory A.
• Is Part Of: Expert review of vaccines. Volume 15:Number 9(2016)
• Page Start: 1197
• Page End: 1211
• Publication Date: 2016-09-01
• Subjects: Smallpox -- smallpox vaccine -- bioterrorism -- biological warfare -- vaccinia virus; Vaccines -- Periodicals; Vaccination -- Periodicals; 615.37205
• DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2016.1175305
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1476-0584

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Smallpox has shaped human history, from the earliest human civilizations well into the 20th century. With high mortality rates, rapid transmission, and serious long-term effects on survivors, smallpox was a much-feared disease. The eradication of smallpox represents an unprecedented medical victory for the lasting benefit of human health and prosperity. Concerns remain, however, about the development and use of the smallpox virus as a biological weapon, which necessitates the need for continued vaccine development. Smallpox vaccine development is thus a much-reviewed topic of high interest. This review focuses on the current state of smallpox vaccines and their context in biodefense efforts.