smallpox vaccination

Smallpox vaccination involves using a related virus called vaccinia to stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight smallpox. When vaccinated, the body produces antibodies and memory cells, offering protection against future infection. The vaccine is given typically through a small scratch or injection on the skin. It was a crucial tool in eradicating smallpox worldwide because vaccinated individuals could prevent the spread of the disease, which was highly contagious and often deadly. Today, smallpox vaccination is no longer routine but remains important for certain laboratory workers and in certain biothreat preparedness efforts.