Immunization

Chickenpox

The Disease

Varicella, or chickenpox, is one of the most common childhood diseases. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most people in the United States get chickenpox while they are still children. Until the late 1990's there were about 4 million cases a year. But now that people are using varicella vaccine, that number has begun to drop.

 

The Immunization

Varicella vaccine is a live-virus vaccine. It has been used in some parts of the world, such as Japan, for over 20 years. It was licensed in the United States in 1995.

 

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP: Prevention of Varicella: Recommendations for Use of Varicella Vaccines in Children, Including a Recommendation for a Routine Two-Dose Varicella Immunization Schedule

• CDC: Prevention of Varicella (Exit Site)

 

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know (PDF 26KB)

• Why get vaccinated?

• Who should get varicella vaccine and when?

• Some people should not get varicella vaccine or should wait

• What are the risks from varicella vaccine?

• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?

 

Other Resources

• Varicella Vaccine Information Statement (Exit Site)

• CDC Varicella Page (Exit Site)

• Immunization Action Coalition Varicella Page (Exit Site)

• National Network for Immunization Information Varicella Page (Exit Site)