smallpox and monkeypox vaccine

What is the most important information I should know about smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

What is smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

This vaccine is used to help prevent smallpox and monkeypox diseases.

Like any vaccine, the smallpox and monkeypox vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

Tell your doctor if you have a weak immune system caused by receiving certain medicines such as steroids, chemotherapy or radiation.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is this vaccine given?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about this vaccine. Additional information is available from your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Smallpox and monkeypox vaccine is injected under the skin, preferably into the upper arm, or between the layers of the skin. You will receive this vaccine in a doctor's office, clinic setting, or pharmacy.

Smallpox and monkeypox vaccine is administered in two doses 4 weeks apart. Talk with your doctor if you had a severe reaction after the first dose.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Be sure you receive all recommended doses of this vaccine. You may not be fully protected against disease if you do not receive the full series.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this vaccine is given by a healthcare professional, an overdose of smallpox and monkeypox vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while receiving smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

Common side effects may include:

• pain, redness, swelling, or itching where the vaccine was injected;
• muscle pain;
• headache;
• tiredness;
• nausea; or
• chills.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1 800 822 7967.

What other drugs will affect smallpox and monkeypox vaccine?

Also tell the doctor if you have recently received drugs or treatments that can weaken the immune system, including:

• an oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable steroid medicine;
• medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders; or
• medicines to treat or prevent organ transplant rejection.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with smallpox and monkeypox vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about this vaccine. Additional information is available from your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.