Anthrax Vaccine (Cont.)

Schedule for the Anthrax Vaccine

The anthrax vaccine schedule consists of three subcutaneous (under the skin) injections, given two weeks apart, followed by three additional subcutaneous injections given at 6, 12, and 18 months. Annual booster injections of the anthrax vaccine are recommended thereafter.
 

Possible Side Effects of the Anthrax Vaccine

Getting anthrax is much riskier than getting the anthrax vaccine; however, just like with any medicine, there are potential risks associated with the vaccine. Most of the possible problems that can occur are minor, meaning that they go away without treatment or are very easily treated by a healthcare provider. The risk of the anthrax vaccine causing serious harm, or death, is extremely small.
 
In 30 percent of people who receive the anthrax vaccine, a mild skin reaction where the shot was given occurs. This skin reaction consists of slight tenderness and redness at the injection site.
 
Severe local reactions are infrequent and consist of extensive swelling of the forearm, in addition to the local reaction.
 
Serious reactions that affect the entire body occur in less than 0.2 percent of people who receive the anthrax vaccine.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;