Varicella (Chickenpox)
What is varicella?
Varicella (chickenpox) is a very common childhood disease. It is usually
mild, but can be serious, especially in young infants and adults.
Varicella, a disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a form
of the herpes virus, is a highly contagious virus that is spread from
person-to-person through the air or by contacting the fluid from the
blisters caused by the virus. Chickenpox causes a blistering itching rash
(pox), fever, and fatigue. It can lead to more serious illness including
severe skin infection, scars, pneumonia, brain damage, and death.
By adulthood, more than 95 percent of Americans have had chickenpox.
Chickenpox most commonly occurs in children between the ages of 5 and 9,
but in the US, chickenpox is most common in children between the ages of 1
and 4. This difference can be linked to the proportion of children in this
age group who are in daycare.
Immunization against chickenpox:Immunization with the chickenpox vaccine can prevent chickenpox
in most people. If a person contracts chickenpox after getting the
vaccine, they will usually have a very mild case.
When is chickenpox vaccine given?Since 1995, a chickenpox vaccine has been available for
children 12 months of age and older. Adolescents and adults who have never
had chickenpox can also get the vaccine. The vaccine has proven very
effective in preventing severe chickenpox. The CDC Advisory Committee on
Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the
American Academy of Family Physicians recommend that all children be
vaccinated with the chickenpox vaccine between 12 and 18 months of age.
Many schools now require vaccination prior to entry into preschool or
public schools. Two doses are recommended for children over 13 who are
getting the vaccine for the first time.
Children who are sick or have a fever should wait until they are well
to receive the chickenpox vaccine. Some children should not receive the
chickenpox vaccine. These include those children who have ever had an
allergic reaction to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, and those who have
had a previous reaction to chickenpox vaccine (in children over age 13 who
need two doses). Your child's physician will advise you on the vaccine in
these and other situations.
What are the risks from chickenpox vaccine?A vaccine, like any medication, is capable of causing serious
problems, such as severe allergic reactions. The risk of chickenpox
vaccine causing serious harm or death is very small. Most people who get
the chickenpox vaccine do not have any problems with it. Problems may
include:
- soreness or swelling in the location where the shot was given
- fever
- mild rash, up to one month after vaccination
Other problems such as low blood count, pneumonia, seizures, and severe
brain reactions are very rare. Experts are not sure whether these are
caused by the chickenpox vaccine or not.
How do I care for my child after immunization with
chickenpox vaccine?
- Give your child aspirin-free pain reliever, as directed by your
child's physician.
- An allergic reaction would most likely occur within a few minutes to
a few hours of the shot. Signs of an allergic reaction may include
difficulty breathing, wheezing, (squeaking sounds while breathing due to
tight airways), weakness, fast heartbeat, hives, and paleness. Report
these or any other unusual signs immediately to your child's physician.
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