Smallpox vaccine guards against monkeypox infection, CDC says

WASHINGTON —Government officials tout the smallpox vaccine as "the best way to prevent monkeypox." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest the following people receive the vaccine following exposure:

• Investigators of animal or human monkeypox cases.

• Healthcare workers who are caring for monkeypox patients, might be asked to care for monkeypox patients or have been in close contact with monkeypox patients in the last 4 days. (Vaccination should be considered up to 14 days after exposure.)

• Anyone who has had close contact with a person or animal sick with monkeypox. Vaccination should be considered up to 14 days after exposure.

• Anyone including veterinarians and veterinary technicians who has had direct physical contact with an infected animal acquired since April 15, 2003, in effected areas of the United States.

• Lab workers who handle specimens that might contain monkeypox virus.

• CAUTION: Those with weakened immune systems or allergies to latex or the vaccine's ingredients should not receive a smallpox innoculation even when exposed to monkeypox virus.