- The recombinant vaccinia vaccine should not be administered if the following apply to either recipients or, for at least three weeks after vaccination, their close household contacts: persons with active or a history of extensive eczema or other eczematoid skin disorders; those with other acute, chronic or exfoliative skin conditions (e.g., atopic dermatitis, burns, impetigo, varicella zoster, severe acne or other open rashes or wounds) until condition resolves; pregnant or nursing women; children under 5 years of age; and immunodeficient or immunosuppressed persons (by disease or therapy), including HIV infection; close household contacts are those who share housing or have close physical contact; determination of the severity of these conditions will be made by the investigator or co-investigator