http://www.wmtw.com/Global/story.asp?s=%20%201290218

Maine Medical Center moves forward with smallpox vaccinations

Friday,May23,2003,4:39 PM

By Elissa Canlas

News 8 WMTW

PORTLAND -- A small group of hospital workers in Maine is now vaccinated against smallpox. It's another step in the state's effort to guard against bio-terror attacks.

Sixteen doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and other hospital workers all volunteered to receive their shots Thursday at Maine Medical Center in Portland. This particular round of smallpox vaccinations was held up for more than a month, because of concerns about triggering heart problems in some recipients.

But the medical workers who got their shots Thursday believe the need to be prepared is paramount.

"I think the risk of a bioterror attack in our country is real, and I can't give you a number, but I think it probably is greater than the risk of the vaccine to our population," said Dr. George Higgins III.

These doctors and nurses feel a unique responsibility, as front line responders in case of a bioterrorist smallpox attack.

"It was important for me to do something to feel I was prepared and could be part of a team that would be prepared should something like a smallpox outbreak occur," said nurse Rebecca Hitchcock.

The Maine Bureau of Health was prepared to vaccinate 3,000 first responders when the vaccinations began in March. At the end of this final vaccination clinic, the total number is 65.

State administrators insist they were not looking for the entire medical community to come forward, but asking local hospitals to prepare core teams of medical workers for a mass emergency.

"I think we've been able to accomplish a great deal as far as enhancing our resources, promoting the training that needs to take place. In response not only to smallpox, but whatever crisis is in our hand," said state epidemiologist Dr. Kathleen Gensheimer.

Dr. Higgins said while he felt it was important as a doctor to get the smallpox vaccination, he would not recommend it for non-health professionals unless there is an immediate danger of exposure to the disease.

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