Implementing a smallpox vaccination program aboard an aircraft carrier

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

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

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.

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.