Smallpox and mpox vaccine, live (By injection)
Smallpox and Mpox Vaccine, Live (SMAWL-pox and EM-pox vak-seen, lyve)
Prevents infections caused by smallpox or mpox.
Brand Name(s):
There may be other brand names for this medicine.When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
This vaccine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to smallpox or mpox vaccine, or if you have a weak immune system (including bone marrow transplant, cancer, or HIV infection).How to Use This Medicine:
Injectable
- Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose. This vaccine is given by using a needle to poke or jab the skin on your upper arm.
- A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
- This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are using a steroid eye drop or ointment or a medicine that weakens the immune system.
- Do not use creams, ointments, or other skin care products on the vaccination site.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This vaccine may transmit virus from pregnant women to their babies. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
- Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, a history of heart attack, stroke, chest pain, or congestive heart failure, or if you smoke cigarettes. Tell your doctor if you have any skin conditions (including eczema, dermatitis, burns, psoriasis, impetigo, chickenpox, shingles, or uncontrolled acne).
- This medicine may cause the following problems:
- Heart problems, including myocarditis, pericarditis
- Swelling of the brain or spinal cord
- Serious skin reactions, including eczema vaccinatum, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Eye or vision problems
- You must wait at least 6 weeks before you can donate blood, use a hot tub or swim, handle a baby, breastfeed, or get pregnant.
- This vaccine may not protect everyone who receives it.
- This vaccine contains a live virus. The virus can cause an infection in other parts of your body or in other people if you touch the vaccination site and then touch your body or other people. Always cover the vaccination site with a bandage. Wash your hands thoroughly after changing the bandage or after touching the vaccination site. Your doctor will tell you how to care for the vaccination site. Make sure you understand the directions and follow them carefully. Avoid contact with people who are sick or have infections until the scab falls off (usually 3 to 6 weeks after vaccination). Talk to your doctor about this if you have concerns.
- Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results. Tell your doctor if you need to be tested for tuberculosis (TB) or syphilis within 6 weeks of receiving this vaccine.
- Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
- Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
- Changes in vision or eye pain
- Chest pain or trouble breathing, fast or uneven heartbeat
- Confusion, irritability, headache, seizures, or stiff neck
- Fever or chills
- Swollen, painful, or tender glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Muscle pain
- Pain, itching, swelling, or redness where the shot is given
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
Last Updated: 2/4/2025