Anthrax Q & A: Vaccination
Is the
anthrax vaccine available to the public?
A vaccine has been developed for anthrax that is protective against invasive
disease, but it is currently only recommended for high-risk populations.
CDC and academic partners are continuing to support the development of
the next generation of anthrax vaccines.
Who should
be vaccinated against anthrax?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended
anthrax vaccination for the following groups:
- Persons who work directly with the organism in the laboratory.
- Persons who work with imported animal hides or furs in areas where standards are insufficient to prevent exposure to anthrax spores.
- Persons who handle potentially infected animal products in high-incidence areas; while incidence is low in the United States, veterinarians who travel to work in other countries where incidence is higher should consider being vaccinated.
- Military personnel deployed to areas with high risk for exposure to the organism.
What
is the protocol for anthrax vaccination?
The immunization consists of three subcutaneous injections given 2 weeks
apart, followed by three additional subcutaneous injections given at 6,
12, and 18 months. Annual booster injections of the vaccine are recommended
thereafter.
Are there
adverse reactions to the anthrax vaccine?
Mild local reactions occur in 30% of recipients and consist of slight
tenderness and redness at the injection site. Severe local reactions are
infrequent and consist of extensive swelling of the forearm in addition
to the local reaction. Systemic reactions occur in fewer than 0.2% of
recipients.
Is there
a vaccination for anthrax?
A protective vaccine has been developed for anthrax; however, it is primarily
given to military personnel. Vaccination is recommended only for those
at high risk, such as workers in research laboratories that handle anthrax
bacteria routinely. The antibiotics used in post exposure prophylaxis
are very effective in preventing anthrax disease from occurring after
an exposure.
Page last modified November 20, 2002