Smallpox Vaccination: Should our Policy be Changed? (USPHS, 1969)

This film shows a debate between Dr. John Neff, who is against the continuation of smallpox vaccination use, and Dr. Samuel Katz, who is in support of it. The debate is mediated by Dr. Paul Wehrle. The host welcomes the audience and Dr. Wehrle gives a brief background of smallpox in America, and then shows a world map that indicates where smallpox has been a problem and during what periods of time. Dr. Neff notes that the vaccine has eradicated smallpox, but argues that it is no longer necessary, the duration of immunity is too short, and there are too many complications and deaths as a result of it. He explains that only US travelers need to be vaccinated to protect the country. Dr. Katz gives his counterarguments, explaining that America is lucky to no longer suffer from smallpox and should maintain freedom from the disease by continuing to vaccinate children; we can’t predict what might happen if we stop. He also explains that America cannot rely on vaccinating US travelers only, since there is the ris