How often should the Smallpox vaccine be administered for high-risk individuals according to DoD policy?

According to Department of Defense (DoD) policy, the Smallpox vaccine should be administered every 3 years for high-risk individuals. This schedule is designed to ensure that immunity remains effective while balancing the risks associated with potential vaccine complications.

The decision to require revaccination every 3 years takes into account the duration of immunity provided by the vaccine, which can wane over time. This recommendation aims to maintain protective immunity against smallpox, especially for those in high-risk categories who may be more likely to encounter the virus or have occupational exposures.

In contrast, options suggesting a different frequency, such as annually or every 5 years, do not align with the established guidelines for high-risk individuals and may result in insufficient immunity or unnecessary additional vaccinations. A lifetime vaccination approach may also be misleading, as it does not address the potential decline in immunity, emphasizing the importance of following the 3-year schedule to ensure ongoing protection.