EXPERIENCE OF ANTI-VACCINIA IMMUNOGLOBULIN IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

Abstract

The experience of 661 persons given anti-vaccinia immunoglobulin (A.V.I.G.) in the United Kingdom between 1967 and 1971 is examined. Immunoglobulin was given prophylactically to 431 persons to prevent complications of smallpox vaccination. Only 1 developed eczema vaccinatum, and this patient recovered quickly; 3 women aborted in early pregnancy after vaccination. 230 patients were given A.V.I.G. to treat established complications after vaccination. The most common of these complications were benign generalised vaccinia and eczema vaccinatum. Lesions of the eyelid were also common among persons accidentally inoculated. 90% of patients improved rapidly after treatment. 5 patients died; none of them had been treated until at least twenty days after vaccination or exposure to infection. 48 of the complications requiring treatment occurred in persons who had been deliberately vaccinated despite the presence of a contraindication. The potential hazards of accidental inoculation were highlighted. Of 70 such patients, 24 developed eczema vaccinatum, and 2 of them died. The findings support the view that A.V.I.G. is effective in the prophylaxis and treatment of the dermal complications of smallpox vaccination.