Model of Cowpox Vaccine production

One major function of the Bacteriology Institute was to manufacture smallpox vaccine for local use until 1972. This model shows the production process. The workers first tied the calf to a special table, and then flipped the table to a horizontal position to expose the belly which was then shaved and inoculated with the cow pox virus. The vaccine was harvested after a few days when blisters developed.
Small pox first occurred around three thousand years ago. The mortality was extremely high and survivors were often left with severe disfigurement and blindness. Inoculation against smallpox was introduced in China about 1000 A.D. by blowing powdered smallpox scabs or placing a pledget of cotton impregnated with smallpox scabs into the nose of a child. In 1793, Edward Jenner introduced cowpox vaccination to prevent smallpox more precisely and effectively with fewer side effects.
The Bacteriology Institute also produced other vaccines such as cholera vaccine, anti-rabies vaccine, and anti-meningococcal serum for local use.