Typical Smallpox Vaccine Reaction

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available online: http://www.bt.cdc.gov The pictures show a typical reaction to the smallpox vaccine. First, a small bump (papule) forms at the vaccine site 3 to 5 days after vaccination. This becomes a pus-filled area (pustule) a few days later. The pustule…

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Medical review: Adam Husney MD, Christine Hahn MD, E. Gregory Thompson MD

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Typical Smallpox Vaccine Reaction

Typical skin reaction at the site of a smallpox vaccine injection

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available online: http://www.bt.cdc.gov

The pictures show a typical reaction to the smallpox vaccine. First, a small bump (papule) forms at the vaccine site 3 to 5 days after vaccination. This becomes a pus-filled area (pustule) a few days later. The pustule dries up and then forms a scab by about 14 days after vaccination. The scab finally falls off at about 21 days after vaccination.

Current as ofJune 9, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
E. Gregory Thompson, MD – Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Christine Hahn, MD – Infectious Disease, Epidemiology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.