The smallpox vaccine: An update for oral health care professionals.
BACKGROUND
A heightened awareness of the potential for bioterrorist attacks in the United States has led to the expansion of the nation's supply of smallpox vaccine and the institution of procedures to distribute this vaccine in the unlikely event of a release of this potentially deadly agent.


METHODS
The authors conducted a review of the relevant smallpox literature through a MEDLINE search. They also reviewed the Web site of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and numerous other Web sites.


RESULTS
The authors considered for inclusion more than 100 articles discussing smallpox, the smallpox vaccine and the role of the dental professional in a bioterrorist attack.


CONCLUSIONS
Dentists may detect the initial signs of a smallpox infection, provide information concerning the disease to the public and potentially assist in the administration of smallpox vaccine.


CONCLUSIONS
Should an intentional release of smallpox occur, the dental professional may play an important role in its treatment and prevention.
Rinaggio
Joseph
J
Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Dental School, Newark 07103-2400, USA. rinaggjo@umdnj.edu
Glick
Michael
M
D004673:Encephalomyelitis, Acute Disseminated / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D012899:Smallpox / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012900:Smallpox Vaccine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D014611:Vaccination / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods
D012900:Smallpox Vaccine