Chickenpox vaccine
in Charlotte Hall, MD

The varicella vaccine, sometimes known as the chickenpox vaccine, can help you avoid contracting the disease. By understanding more about what this immunization does and who should get it, you can make an informed health care decision for yourself and your family.

Chickenpox vaccination: what everyone should know

Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash that appears first on the chest, back, and face before spreading to the rest of the body, according to the CDC. Other symptoms include fever and fatigue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two doses of the chickenpox vaccine are around 90% effective in preventing chickenpox, which means you could still get the disease after being vaccinated. Children, adolescents, and adults who have never had chickenpox or been inoculated against it should get this vaccination.

Who needs the chickenpox vaccine?

According to the CDC, children, teens, and adults should receive two doses of the chickenpox vaccine.
Children between the ages of 12 and 15 should receive the first dose of the chickenpox vaccine, and children between the ages of four and six should receive the second dose. Children can take the second dose at a younger age if it is given at least three months after the first, according to the CDC.

Those aged 13 and up who have never had chickenpox or been vaccinated should get two doses spaced by at least 28 days. According to the CDC, the chickenpox vaccine is especially important for healthcare workers, teachers, college students, nursing home patients, and international travelers.
Consult your doctor to see if you need the chickenpox vaccine based on your current health situation.

Who should not get the chickenpox vaccine?

You don't need the vaccine if you show evidence of immunity against chickenpox, according to the CDC. Immunity is demonstrated, among other things, by being born in the United States before 1980 and having a confirmed diagnosis of chickenpox.

According to the CDC, the following people should not obtain the chickenpox vaccine:

• Those who have suffered a life-threatening reaction to the chickenpox vaccine or any of its components.
• Those who are moderately or severely ill when their chickenpox immunization appointment is scheduled.
• Women who are expecting children.

Certain patients should see their doctors before getting the chickenpox vaccine. According to the CDC, this includes:

• Those who have an illness of the immune system, such as HIV or AIDS.
• Those who have cancer or are being treated for cancer with radiation or medicines.
• Those who have received a blood transfusion recently.

Two types of chickenpox vaccines

Two types of chickenpox vaccines are now approved for use in the United States. The vaccines' brand names, according to the CDC, are Varivax® and ProQuad®.

Varivax®

Varivax® contains only the chickenpox vaccination. Adults, teenagers, and children aged 12 months and up are the only ones who can get this vaccine.

ProQuad®

ProQuad® is a vaccine that includes the chickenpox vaccine as well as immunizations for measles, mumps, and rubella. This vaccination is only approved for children ages 12 months to 12 years, according to the CDC.

Getting vaccinated after you are exposed to chickenpox

If you have been exposed to chickenpox, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated within three to five days after contact. It goes on to state that you should get two doses of the vaccine even if you've been exposed for more than five days. Each of these dosages should be separated by at least 28 days.

Childcare and school chickenpox vaccine requirements

If you have been exposed to chickenpox, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated within three to five days after contact. It goes on to state that you should get two doses of the vaccine even if you've been exposed for more than five days. Each of these dosages should be separated by at least 28 days.

Your healthcare practitioner can discuss whether or not your children should get the chickenpox vaccine with you in greater detail based on your family's religious and philosophical beliefs, as well as their medical history.

How can parents pay for the chickenpox vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccination is covered by most health insurance policies, according to the CDC. If your health insurance plan does not cover the cost of your children's chickenpox immunization, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program may be able to help. The CDC recommends contacting VFC directly to see if you're qualified for financial aid through this program.