The Vaccine Act of 1813

The Vaccine Act of 1813 was a law in the United States establishing a government system to regulate smallpox vaccination efforts. It created a national board to oversee vaccine distribution, ensure its safety, and promote public health initiatives. This legislation aimed to control smallpox outbreaks by standardizing vaccination procedures and providing funding and support to advance vaccination programs across the country. It marked the first formal federal effort to organize and promote vaccination as a means to prevent infectious disease.