Consent and compensation: a social compact for smallpox vaccine policy in the event of an attack.

In the event of a widespread biological attack involving smallpox, it may not only be morally permissible, but morally obligatory, to dispense with the ordinary requirements of informed consent for vaccination. The government should also commit to educating the public about the vaccine, distributing the vaccine efficiently and fairly, and ensuring access to health care to those who experience adverse events as a result of vaccination. In addition, the government should provide a program of financial compensation for any persons who experience permanent disability as a consequence of vaccination and for the families of those who die as a result of vaccination.