Reactions 967 - 6 Sep 2003

■ The WHO has issued a statement on the safety ofsmallpox vaccines, following the presentation of twoexpert reports to the Global Advisory Committee onVaccine Safety in Geneva, Switzerland, in June thisyear. The reports highlighted the variation inpathogenicity of previously used strains, noting thatsafety information gained with older vaccines may notbe applicable to newer vaccines. Special attention waspaid to the lack of data regarding immunisation safetyin those aged < 18 years, age-related risks, andvaccination outcomes in pregnant women. Theyhighlight the importance of adverse event monitoringfor the vaccine, and conclude that "there is a real riskof serious adverse events following immunization withsmallpox vaccine".World Health Organization. Safety of smallpox vaccines. Internet Document :[1 page], Jul 2003. Available from: URL: http://www.who.int 800863917

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