1.   Although a rabies vaccine was approved for ferrets several years ago, some cities and at least one state, California, still prohibit possession of the animals.

2.   And after years of controversy and delay, federal officials approved a vaccine for chicken pox, considered the most contagious of all childhood diseases.

3.   And Food and Drug Administration officials stood by their decision to approve the vaccine.

4.   A similar vaccine has been licensed in Japan, and the FDA has been criticized for delaying in approving the vaccine in this country.

5.   But it could be five years before a new vaccine is approved for use.

6.   Cases of bowel obstruction were noted in the experimental trials that were required for the vaccine to be approved, but not in unusual numbers.

7.   Cases of bowel obstruction were noted in experimental trials that were required before the vaccine was approved for licensing, but not in unusual numbers.

8.   Germany was the first country to approve the vaccine.

9.   So far no cancer vaccines have been approved for sale in the United States, although several companies are close to seeking FDA approval.

10.   Still, there are technical obstacles to overcome and even if all goes well, it will be at least several years before any vaccine is approved for use.