Here's The Truth Behind This Scar On People's Upper Left Arm
If you're older, you likely received the smallpox vaccine as a child, leaving behind a small pea-sized scar on your arm. The good news is that this vaccine may still offer protection against monkeypox, according to Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical TV doctor.
Smallpox vaccination programs in the UK and the US continued until 1971–1972, meaning people aged 50 and above were vaccinated and may still have protection against monkeypox. Since smallpox and monkeypox are related viruses, studies show the smallpox vaccine offers about 85% protection against monkeypox.
What is especially remarkable is that even decades after vaccination, individuals who were vaccinated as children continue to show strong antibody responses to smallpox. The longest recorded case of lasting immunity was someone vaccinated over 90 years ago, according to the Daily Mail. Older adults who were vaccinated may still contract monkeypox, but they are more likely to experience mild symptoms and recover quickly.
Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, scientific director at the U.S. National Institute on Aging, highlighted that people vaccinated decades ago maintain high levels of antibodies and strong virus-neutralizing capabilities. A smallpox vaccination scar from childhood indicates you may still be protected against monkeypox, even if you were vaccinated 50 years ago.
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the White House’s top infectious disease advisor, was asked about the durability of the smallpox vaccine. He confirmed that most vaccinated individuals remain protected, but the strength of that protection can vary from person to person. While the vaccine may still offer protection, Dr. Fauci noted it cannot be guaranteed for everyone.
Should Unvaccinated People Be Worried?
Experts suggest that most children and adults with healthy immune systems will not experience severe illness from monkeypox. However, two groups are considered at higher risk:
