March 21 - A new objective has now been added to Indiana's Smallpox Preparedness Plan - Recruitment of Volunteer Vaccinators.  Having an adequate supply of volunteer vaccinators will provide for the timely vaccination of the entire population of Shelby County should a smallpox threat be realized in this or other location.

In the event of an emergency, the goal would be vaccination of essentially the entire population of Shelby County over a 10 day period.  ISDH has estimated that, for our population, we should plan to use 50 vaccinators.  Recruitment of volunteer vaccinators began Friday, March 21, and 30+ volunteers came forward immediately.  By Monday, March 24, 56 volunteers had stepped forward to meet this challenge, and others continue to call.

To volunteer as a vaccinator, you do not need to be vaccinated yourself!  Barring absolute contraindications, it would be highly recommended to be vaccinated in the event of an emergency. However, vaccination is not required - either to become a vaccinator or in the event that you would be called to actually administer vaccine.  Thus we urge healthcare professionals to register with SCHD by calling 392-6472.  We will continue to take information from volunteers through March 28, 2003.