Randomized trial comparing vaccinia on the external surfaces of 3 conventional bandages applied to smallpox vaccination sites in primary vaccinees.
BACKGROUND
Concern about accidental contact transmission after smallpox vaccination has prompted various recommendations regarding vaccination site coverage.


METHODS
On days 6-8 after their first-ever smallpox vaccination, 63 adult subjects were randomized to apply a self-adhesive bandage (n=20), gauze with adhesive tape (n=21), or gauze with a semipermeable dressing (n=22) over the vaccination site for a mean of 8+/-2 h. Swabs from the external bandage surfaces and the vaccination sites were then assessed by real time vaccinia-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in blinded fashion.


RESULTS
Among 58 subjects completing the study, PCR results were positive for the vaccination site in 55 (94.8%) and on 10 swabs (17.2%) from external bandage surfaces. There were no differences among the 3 bandages (P=.57).


CONCLUSIONS
At 7 days after smallpox vaccination, a peak time for vaccinia shedding, a self-adhesive bandage was as effective as 2 bulkier, less convenient bandages in limiting PCR-detectable virus on the external surface.
Allergy-Immunology Service, Department of Medicine, Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center, Fort Gordon, GA 30905-5650, USA. kirk.waibel@se.amedd.army.mil
Kirk H
KH
Waibel
Edward P
EP
Ager
Richard L
RL
Topolski
Douglas S
DS
Walsh
D000328:Adult; D001458:Bandages / Q000821:virology*; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000302:isolation & purification; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012900:Smallpox Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014611:Vaccination / Q000379:methods*; D014615:Vaccinia / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission*; D014616:Vaccinia virus / Q000302:isolation & purification*
D004279:DNA, Viral; D012900:Smallpox Vaccine