What is Chickenpox
How to prevent Chickenpox
Who should get a Chickenpox vaccine
When to get a Chickenpox vaccine
 What is Chickenpox
Chickenpox (also called varicella) is a common childhood disease. It is usually mild, but it can be
serious, especially in young infants and adults.
- The chickenpox virus can be spread from person to person through the air or by contact with fluid
from chickenpox blisters
- It causes a rash, itching, fever and tiredness
- It can lead to severe skin infection, scars, pneumonia, brain damage or death
- A person who has had chickenpox can get a painful rash called shingles years later
- About 12,000 people are hospitalized for chickenpox each year in the United States
- About 100 people die each year in the United States as a result of chickenpox
How to prevent Chickenpox
Chickenpox vaccine can prevent chickenpox. Most people who get chickenpox vaccine will not
get chickenpox. But if someone who has been vaccinated does get chickenpox, it is usually very
mild. They will have fewer spots, are less likely to have a fever and will recover faster.
Who should get a Chickenpox vaccine
Children should get 1 dose of chickenpox vaccine between 12 and 18 months of age,
or at any age after that if they have never had chickenpox.
When to get a Chickenpox vaccine
People who do not get the vaccine until 13 years of age or older should get 2 doses, 4-8 weeks apart.
Chickenpox vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.
|
