Varicella disease or commonly known as Chickenpox is a highly common infection observed in children.
It is usually milder but can turn severe in some cases, especially in young infants
as well as adults with imperiled immunity. The common symptoms of chickenpox are
• Rashes
• Itching
• Fatigue
• Fever
In rare cases, it might lead to critical skin infection, permanent scars,
brain damage, pneumonia, or even death. The virus that causes chickenpox is called
Varicella-zoster, and most people catch the infection during their childhood. If a person
hasn’t had chickenpox as a child, it can still be caught in adulthood.
It spreads through the air by coughing or sneezing, and that’s why Chickenpox
Vaccination is essential. The chickenpox vaccination belongs to
a group of vaccines knownas 'live' vaccines. This means that it holds a small portion of the
inactivated virus which causes chickenpox which, causes your immune system to respond to the
vaccine. As a result, you’ll be immune to this infection if you come in contact with the
Varicella-zoster virus at a later stage.
How is it administered?
The vaccineis usually administered in two doses to ensure you remain
protected. The second vaccine should be administered at least four but no later than eight weeks
after you have received your first vaccine.
Who should get vaccinated?
• Children under the age 13 years should undergo
• All adults who have never had chickenpox since childhood and or were not vaccinated against
chickenpox.
• Adults who are at greater risk of exposure should especially consider the vaccination. They
include health care workers, teachers, daycare workers, and college students.
Why is the Chickenpox Vaccination important?
The vaccine reduces the possibility of getting chickenpox tremendously.
Vaccinated individuals who get infected are expected to experience a milder form of the disease
than those who are not vaccinated.
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