The smallpox vaccine has saved many lives.
Other orthpoxviruses that cause infections in humans include variola (smallpox), vaccinia (used for smallpox vaccine), and cowpox viruses.
It belongs to a group of viruses that includes the smallpox virus (variola), the virus used in the smallpox vaccine (vaccinia), and the cowpox virus.
The vaccinia virus is a non-dangerous virus used in the smallpox vaccine because it is related to the variola virus, which is the agent of smallpox.
The reports included a detailed review of the safety of smallpox vaccine based on historical data as well as recent experience, particularly in the United States.
Consistent adverse effects reported in smallpox vaccinees have been myopericarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy; the frequency of each adverse effect exceeds what might have occurred by coincidence.
