Participation in Smallpox Vaccination Plans High Among Hawaii Hospitals

The Hawaii Department of Health together with the Healthcare Association of Hawaii has confirmed participation in smallpox response team vaccination plans with over 90% of hospitals statewide. This high rate of participation places Hawaii above the national average.

Hawaii hospitals and the Department of Health are preparing to offer smallpox vaccinations to selected members of their staff.  Volunteers are being recruited and pre-screened for a vaccination process that is expected to begin in late February or March.

Hospital staff and public workers that receive the vaccination will be identified as members of their on-site Healthcare Smallpox Response Team.  These team members will receive specialized training in the identification and management of smallpox outbreaks in the months to come.

Four hospitals are still considering their participation decision.  They include: Castle Medical Center, Hawaii State Hospital, North Hawaii Community Hospital and Shriner's Hospital for Children.  All other Hawaii hospitals have elected to offer the vaccination to their staff.  This includes Tripler Army Medical Center and various ancillary organizations.

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