Varicella
Are you vaccinated ?
What Is Varicella?
Varicella also known as the chickenpox is a contagious disease that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness and fever. It can be serious in babies, adult and people with weak immune systems. It spreads easily from an infected person to others who have never had chickenpox or have received the vaccine. It can spread in the air through coughing or sneezing or touching and breathing in the virus particles that had come from the chickenpox blisters.
Before the Varicella Vaccine
Chickenpox used to be very common in the United States. About 4 million people would get the disease each year. Also, about 10,600 people were hospitalized and 100 to 150 died each year because of chickenpox.
Why you and your child should get vaccinated.
The chickenpox vaccine protects you and family against this uncomfortable disease that can sometimes become serious. It will protect others in your community, this is important for people who cannot get vaccinated. It lowers the risk of you or your child getting shingles which is a painful rash.
Individuals who should get the Varicella Vaccine
Children under age 13 years should get two doses
- People 13 years of age and older who have never had chickenpox
- Healthcare professionals
- Care workers who are around people with weakened immune systems
- Teachers
- Child care workers
- Residents and staff in nursing homes
- Adolescents and adults living with children
You should not get the vaccine if
if you have evidence of immunity against the disease.
had a life-threatening allergic reaction to chickenpox vaccine
People who are moderately or severely ill
Pregnant women
if you are on steroids
the Possiable Side Effects include
Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
Fever
Mild rash or several small bumps after vaccination. If you get chickenpox rash after vaccination, you can spread the disease to others.
Seizure (jerking and staring spell) that may be caused by fever.
Serious side effects may include severe brain reactions and low blood count.
Children who are 12 to 23 months old may have a higher chance of a seizure caused by fever.