What is the varicella vaccine?

The varicella vaccine is a live but weakened virus that is injected  under the skin. The body kills the weakened virus and makes antibodies  that protect against future infections. If a child is exposed to the  varicella virus after receiving the vaccine, her immune system will  recognize and attack the virus.

Most children who receive the varicella vaccine will not get the  chicken pox. Those children who do develop a rash will have a very mild  form of the disease.

Children who are 13 years or older who have not had chicken pox will need 2 doses of the vaccine, doses spaced 1-2 months apart.

It is currently recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics  that all children who have not had the disease already receive the  vaccine any time after the age of one.

What are the side effects of the varicella vaccine?

The most common side effects of the varicella vaccine, similar to any  injected vaccine, is pain, irritation, and mild redness at the  injection site. These symptoms may cause prolonged crying.

7-8% of children who receive the vaccine will develop 2-5 chicken pox-like bumps within a month of receiving the vaccination.

The virus from the vaccine is usually not found in these bumps unlike  true varicella. Nevertheless, anyone who has an immune system defect  (see “Who should NOT receive the varicella vaccine?”) should avoid  contact with this rash.

Who should NOT receive the varicella vaccine?

Pregnant women and women who intend to become pregnant in the next month.

Those who have weakened immune systems such as a defect in the immune  system at birth, an HIV infection, and an immune system weakened by  drugs such as high-dose steroids.

Those allergic to gelatin or neomycin should NOT receive the vaccine  because there are trace amounts of these products in the vaccine.

Anyone who has received immunoglobulin (for example, IVIG, HBIG, RSVIG or Respigam, TIG, RIG, VZIG, or red  cell and platelet transfusions) in the last 3-9 months. If your child  received any of these blood products in the last year, let us know at  your next visit.

What is the vaccination schedule for the varicella vaccine?

The single dose varicella vaccine can be given any time after the first birthday.

Warning signs – Call our office for advice if:

Your child is less than 6 months old and has a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees F, Call Our Office Now.

Your child is older than 6 months and has a temperature greater than 102.5 degrees F, Call Our Office Now.

Your child develops any signs of an allergic reaction including hives or difficulty breathing, Call Our Office Now.

You have any questions or concerns, or are unsure whether your child’s symptoms are worrisome, Call Our Office Now.