Chickenpox Vaccination
Chickenpox (Varicella)
Chickenpox (varicella) is an extremely contagious childhood disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Winter and spring are the most common times of the year for chickenpox to occur.
Vaccination against chickenpox (varicella)
Getting a vaccination can minimize the risk of contracting chickenpox. The vaccination requires two shots. The first one is given at about 1 year of age, and the second (booster) is given at 4 years of age. All children, except those with a compromised immune system, should be vaccinated. If an older person has not had chickenpox, the shot can be given at any time. There have been very few significant adverse reactions to the chickenpox vaccine.
How chickenpox is spread
It is easily passed between members of families and school classmates through airborne particles, droplets in exhaled air and fluid from the blisters or sores. It also can be transmitted indirectly by contact with articles of clothing and other items exposed to fresh drainage from open sores. Most people contract chickenpox by age 15, the majority between ages 5 and 9, but all ages can contract it. Chickenpox is usually more severe in adults and very young infants than in older children.
