Smallpox - Key Message Points
1. (Protect) The risk of smallpox outbreak is low. The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department is taking responsible action to protect the public from any potential outbreak of this deadly disease.
2. (Prepare) California's first focus is vaccinating health care workers who would respond to a smallpox outbreak. We are working with the State officials to implement a plan for the voluntary vaccination of these workers. Once that is complete, efforts will turn to police, fire and other emergency workers.
3. (Voluntary) Smallpox vaccination is voluntary. Because of its risks, the smallpox vaccine is not recommended for the general public at this time.