[-YYZ-]

Just out of interest: I was vaccinated as a child in the late 60's or early 70's, of course. I understand that that vaccination may not have much effectiveness anymore. While in basic training, we were re-vaccinated for a variety of diseases. Some of the guys got a shot that caused a huge sore on their arm - would that be a smallpox vaccination? If so, does it cause as nasty a reaction in people who have been previously vaccinated (I didn't get that shot in basic)? Anyone know?

[jacquej]

The big sore on the arm, if it was smallpox, would have formed a scab, and evenrtually a light flattish smooth and somewhat circular mark...

If you were vaccinated as a child, and aren't too old, you should have one on your arm or your thigh. Many times girls were innoculated on their thighs so they could wear sleeveless blouses and dresses without the scar showing on their upper arm.

[bonesmccoy]

Yes, if you were reimmunized against smallpox more than 10 years after your first vaccine dose, you are likely to have lifetime immunity. You should be on the frontline of the biological defenses against small pox. I hope you have medical training!

It's really IDIOTIC and STUPID to have dosages of vaccine sitting around, yet healthcare workers can not immunize themselves. WE ARE THE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY TARGETS, but DASCHLE's DUMMIES won't let market forces rule in healthcare.