Chickenpoxis a viral infection sparked by thevaricella zostervirus (aherpesvirus).
It causes symptoms like blisters, rashes,fever, and more.
It is transmitted easily through contact with other people who have an active chickenpox infection.
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The infection lasts between five and 10 days and is normally mild.
However, some people with chickenpox experience serious health issues.
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What Is the Chickenpox Vaccine?
There are several types of vaccines.
The chickenpox vaccine is a live-attenuatedvaccine.
Live-attenuated vaccines contain a weakened version of the germ the vaccine is being used to prevent.
However, this key in of vaccine may not be appropriate for every person.
Who Should Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The chickenpox vaccine is a routine childhood vaccination recommended for all children.
For maximum effectiveness, it must be administered within five days after exposure.
Chickenpox Vaccine Mandate
There is no federal law requiring the chickenpox vaccine.
The ACIP recommends that:
Exemptions to the vaccine are handled on a state-by-state basis as well.
There are other situations in which the chickenpox vaccine may be required in the interest of public health.
Who Should Not Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
With two doses, the effectiveness increases to prevent 92%93% of any chickenpox infection.
In that case, they are advised to stay away from infants and people who have compromised immune systems.
However, shingles occurs less often after getting the chickenpox vaccine than after having a chickenpox infection.
The vaccine is not recommended for people who have a compromised immune system.
Summary
The varicella vaccine is highly effective at preventing chickenpox.
Your healthcare provider can help determine if the vaccine is safe for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
The routine chickenpox vaccine is administered in a two dose series.
When you get the second dose depends on what age you received the first dose.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox vaccination.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.Vaccine types.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Varicella vaccine recommendations.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Traveler’s health: varicella (chickenpox).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Varicella vaccine VIS.
Citizenship and Immigration Services.Chapter 9 - vaccination requirement.
UpToDate.Vaccination for the prevention of chickenpox (primary varicella infection).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox symptoms and complications.
