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 Vaccine InformationChicken PoxA disease caused by infection with the varicella zoster virus, which causes fever and an itchy rash. A skin rash of blister-like lesions erupts covering the body, but this is usually more concentrated on the face, scalp, and trunk. Most, but not all, infected individuals have fever, which develops just before or when the rash appears. If exposed, persons who have been vaccinated against the disease may get a milder illness, with a less severe rash (sometimes involving only a few red bumps that look similar to insect bites) and mild or no fever. ComplicationsThese include a bacterial infection of the skin, swelling of the brain, and pneumonia. Adolescents and adults are more at risk for severe disease. TransmissionSpread by coughing and sneezing (highly contagious), by direct contact, and by aerosolization of virus from skin lesions. VaccineVaricella vaccine can prevent this disease. Currently, two doses of vaccine are recommended for children, adolescents, and adults. Chicken Pox PhotosChicken Pox VaccineThe Chickenpox vaccine is the best way to prevent chickenpox. Vaccination not only protects vaccinated persons, it also reduces the risk for exposure in the community for persons unable to be vaccinated because of illness or other conditions, including those who may be at greater risk for severe disease. While no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing disease, the chickenpox vaccine is very effective: about 8 to 9 of every 10 people who are vaccinated are completely protected from chickenpox. In addition, the vaccine almost always prevents against severe disease. If a vaccinated person does get chickenpox, it is usually a very mild case lasting only a few days and involving fewer skin lesions (usually less than 50), mild or no fever, and few other symptoms. |
