Typical Smallpox Vaccine Reaction
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available online: http://www.bt.cdc.gov
The pictures show a typical reaction to the smallpox vaccine. First, a small bump (papule) forms at the vaccine site 3 to 5 days after vaccination. This becomes a pus-filled area (pustule) a few days later. The pustule dries up and then forms a scab by about 14 days after vaccination. The scab finally falls off at about 21 days after vaccination.
Current as of: March 2, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Christine Hahn MD - Epidemiology
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