U.S. OKs Drug to Fight Smallpox Shot Reactions

Computer Sciences Corp. won U.S. regulatory approval of a treatment for people who develop rare, dangerous reactions to the smallpox vaccination.

People with weakened immune systems or other skin problems can develop infections from the smallpox inoculation because it contains a live virus. El Segundo-based Computer Sciences' product, called Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous, or VIGIV, contains antibodies to fight such reactions, the Food and Drug Administration said.

VIGIV wouldn't be used to treat the common side effects of vaccination, such as fever or skin rash, the FDA said. It would be reserved for severe skin infections and other significant complications, the FDA said.