Implementing a smallpox vaccination program aboard an aircraft carrier.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the feasibility of implementing a smallpox vaccination program aboard an aircraft carrier in conjunction with anthrax vaccination.


METHODS
Retrospective review of smallpox vaccination program conducted from January 17, 2003 to February 19, 2003. Morbidity and loss of manpower were the major endpoints.


RESULTS
There were 5,204 sailors available for vaccination. There were 243 (4.7%) medical exemptions and 24 administrative exemptions. During the program, 4,931 sailors were vaccinated. There were five reportable complications. Three sailors had autoinoculation, one sailor had localized cellulitis, and one patient had a positive beta human chorionic gonadotropin during vaccination. None of the complications required medical evacuation. Only two sailors required time off from duty.


CONCLUSIONS
Smallpox vaccination can be accomplished rapidly and safely aboard an aircraft carrier. There was not an increase in adverse events compared to historical data despite the close-quarter conditions. Smallpox and anthrax vaccinations can be completed simultaneously with minimal morbidity.
USS Constellation, Medical Department, San Diego, CA, FPO AP 96635-2780, USA.
Jeff
J
Apple
Patrick
P
Hare
Chris
C
Crerar
Errika
E
Walker
Joe
J
Wilson
Christin
C
Brown
Kennett
K
Moses
Thomas
T
Hendrickson
Daniel
D
Field
Francis
F
Hoffman
Patrick
P
Pedrus
John
J
Miller
Brad
B
Smith
D023482:Bioterrorism / Q000517:prevention & control; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008889:Military Personnel; D009326:Naval Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012767:Ships; D012899:Smallpox / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012900:Smallpox Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D014481:United States
D012900:Smallpox Vaccine