ACAM2000

ACAM2000 is a vaccine used to prevent smallpox, a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the variola virus. It is a live, attenuated (weakened) version of the virus, which stimulates the immune system to produce a protective response without causing the disease itself.

History

ACAM2000 was developed by Acambis, a biotechnology company based in the United Kingdom, in response to the U.S. government's call for a new smallpox vaccine following the September 11 attacks. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007.

Mechanism of Action

ACAM2000 works by stimulating the immune system to produce an immune response against the smallpox virus. This is achieved by injecting a live, attenuated version of the virus into the body. The immune system recognizes the virus as foreign and produces antibodies and T cells to fight it. These immune cells remain in the body, providing long-term protection against the disease.

Usage

ACAM2000 is used to protect individuals at high risk of smallpox infection, such as laboratory workers who handle the virus and military personnel. It is also part of the U.S. government's emergency stockpile in case of a bioterrorist attack.

Side Effects

Like all vaccines, ACAM2000 can cause side effects. The most common are mild and include fever, headache, and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare but can include heart inflammation and a severe rash.

See Also

• Smallpox vaccine
• Vaccination
• Bioterrorism