PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: Not specified Chemotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 6 months since prior chemotherapy and recovered Endocrine therapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 6 months since prior hormonal therapy (including steroids) and recovered Radiotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 months since prior radiotherapy of prostate and recovered Surgery: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 months since prior prostate surgery and recovered Other: Prior vaccinia immunization required OR Patient recollection of immunization and appropriate vaccination site scar