Guideline for Obtaining Vaccinina Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Assay

If an individual presents with a history of rash or serious illness <30 day following:
-recent smallpox vaccination
-contact with a smallpox vaccination site
-exposure to vaccinia virus
AND
-the individual has vesicules/pustules OR is hospitalized

contact the Vaccine Healthcare Center (VHC) at 1-866-210-6469 (24/7 phone) to obtain clinical guidance on possible adverse events and the role of PCR testing.  To be instructed about the information that must be submitted, and how to obtain, package and ship a specimen, AND how to obtain a Poxvirus Human Specimen Submission Form, click here.