[The effectiveness of immunization with vaccinia virus type "MVA" against an infection with cowpox virus type "OPV 85" in rabbits].

The immunological efficacy of vacciniavirus "MVA" was tested against a dermal and intradermal infection with cowpoxvirus "OPV 85" in rabbits: A single vaccination with "MVA" provided only insufficient immunity, a revaccination induced good immunity. Intramuscular immunizations protected better than subcutaneous applications. Immunized rabbits showed "revaccination reactions" after infection with "OPV 85" indicating a cellular immunity. After immunization with "MVA" and after infection with cowpoxvirus "OPV 85" all rabbits developed N- and ELISA-antibodies. HAI-antibodies were not found after immunization, but indicated a multiplication of cowpoxvirus after challenge. Vacciniavirus "MVA" is suggested for immunization of man and animal against possible infections with cowpoxvirus and cowpoxlike viruses.