The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) was on the Curry College campus recently to train to students and faculty on smallpox vaccine administration. The presentation included an overview of the current National and State Smallpox Preparedness Program and the history of smallpox and smallpox vaccination. The program reviewed the principles of a mass Dispensing Site and the specific requirements of such a site with regards to Smallpox Vaccine Administration. Participants were instructed on pre- and post- event screening for Smallpox Vaccine Administration, how to evaluate a vaccination “take” post vaccination, proper vaccination site care, and Adverse Events Reporting. Upon completion, qualified participants were certified in Smallpox Vaccine Administration by the MDPH.
The training included a lecture portion followed by hands-on practice with the smallpox bifurcated needles. All participants received a certificate of training. The training was presented by Katie White, RN, MPH. Ms White is the Infectious Disease Response Nurse for the Mass DPH.
The classes participating were the current ACCEL class, and the RN to BS students in NSG 3031 at Plymouth, Milton and Spaulding. The faculty included Cathy Santos, Susan James, Gail Gramattica and Maureen O'Shea.
Approximately eighty students and faculty were trained by Mass DPH as vaccine administrators for the state should the need arise.