Mayor Michael Bloomberg and five city health department doctors received vaccinations against smallpox Wednesday as part of a nationwide plan to prepare for possible bioterror attacks. The high-profile vaccinations kicked off an effort that city officials hope will result in 5,000 to 10,000 public safety and health care workers volunteering to be vaccinated by the end of May. More than 25 states already have similar programs under way. President Bush received the vaccine in December, shortly after ordering vaccines for about a half-million U.S. troops. Bloomberg, who received his vaccination at City Hall, rolled up the sleeve of his blue shirt as the shot was administered. “Even though we are not requiring any city employees to receive a smallpox vaccination, many potential first responders will choose to do so, and I don’t want them to take any risks that I would not take myself,” the mayor said. Full Story
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