Compensation proposed for smallpox vaccine injuries

The fund, proposed by the Bush administration, would be retroactive to those already vaccinated.

By Susan Landers, amednews staff. March 24/31, 2003.

Washington -- The Bush administration on March 6 proposed creation of a compensation program to provide benefits to doctors and other health care workers who are injured as a result of receiving the smallpox vaccine.

The vaccine's sometimes dangerous side effects are well-known and had prompted many groups to urge the Bush administration to develop a compensation program for those injured by the vaccine.

It is now up to Congress to approve the plan.

The plan includes elements similar to the benefits package available to police officers and firefighters under the Public Safety Officers Benefit program. The package would be administered by the Dept. of Health and Human Services and be retroactive to cover those already vaccinated. It would provide $262,100 for death or permanent and total disability caused by the vaccine. First responders who are already covered under the safety officers program would not receive this benefit.

HHS would also compensate individuals for two-thirds of lost wages after the fifth day of absence from work, up to a maximum of $50,000. These funds would be secondary to any workers' compensation or disability insurance benefits that might be available. In addition, those injured would be compensated for medical expenses, other than for minor injuries, not covered by health insurance. HHS would also compensate those who contract vaccinia from vaccinated individuals.

The administration hoped that 500,000 physicians and other health care workers would receive the smallpox vaccine in the first stage of a national effort to prepare for a possible smallpox attack by terrorists. However, many hospitals and some unions representing health workers have advised personnel to refrain from receiving the vaccine because of potential risks.

Still, as of the beginning of March, more than 12,000 first responders. including many health care workers, have received the vaccination. More than 100,000 military people have also been vaccinated by the Dept. of Defense.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention so far has recorded five moderate-to-severe adverse events, including two cases of ocular vaccinia in women with close regular contact with military personnel. The agency also noted 46 mild adverse reactions, such as the development of fever or a rash. The Defense Dept. has reported 11 notable reactions ranging from mild to severe. There have been no deaths.