selfinoculation

Selfinoculation refers to the introduction of a biological agent, antigen, or other material into one’s own body. The term encompasses both historical immunization practices and accidental or intentional exposures by individuals without professional supervision. It is used in discussions of immunology, infectious disease, laboratory safety, and public health.

Historically, variolation or inoculation to prevent smallpox involved transferring material from an infected person’s lesions into a healthy person. While many early procedures occurred under the supervision of practitioners, there are accounts of individuals attempting home-based inoculations. Variolation predated modern vaccines and carried substantial risks, including severe smallpox disease and unintended outbreaks.

In modern medicine, vaccination programs emphasize delivery by trained personnel, standardized dosing, and sterile procedures. Self-administration of vaccines is generally discouraged or prohibited due to safety concerns, improper technique, and the potential for adverse reactions. Selfinoculation with pathogenic material outside controlled settings can lead to persistent infection, transmission to others, or serious complications.

In laboratory and clinical contexts, self-inoculation with pathogens or cell cultures is considered dangerous and is governed by strict biosafety rules. Public health and medical ethics stress protecting individuals from self-harm and preventing occupational exposure, promoting safe practices and oversight in any procedures that involve introducing biological material into the body.