US Military Experience with Smallpox Vaccination
In early January 2003, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) began smallpox vaccinations of selected U.S. military forces, and emergency-essential civilians and contractors deployed or deploying in support of U.S. Central Command missions.
Although the exact number has not been released, it is been stated to be multiple tens of thousands. As of January 31, overall, 3 percent of vaccinated personnel required sick leave (1 to 2 percent of re-vaccinees). Only two noteworthy cases have been reported: one case of encephalitis possibly linked to vaccination (the soldier is recovering), and one case of generalized vaccinia that did not require therapy or leave from work.
A Controversial Reboot: New Vaccine Panel Faces Scrutiny, Support, and Sharp Divides
June 26th 2025As the newly appointed Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met for the first time under sweeping changes by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the national spotlight turned to the panel’s legitimacy, vaccine guidance, and whether science or ideology would steer public health policy in a polarized era.
Getting Down and Dirty With PPE: Presentations at HSPA by Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski
June 26th 2025In the heart of the hospital, decontamination technicians tackle one of health care’s dirtiest—and most vital—jobs. At HSPA 2025, 6 packed workshops led by experts Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski spotlighted the crucial, often-overlooked art of PPE removal. The message was clear: proper doffing saves lives, starting with your own.
