Chicken Pox Vaccination

Chicken pox or varicella is the one of the common diseases among children. The symptoms are common cold, mild fever and rash that resembles insect bites. In a few days, the rash will become itchy so that the child may scratch it before it heals on its own. Even though this disease is not that much harmful, it is very uncomfortable. So the American academy of pediatrics recommends the chicken pox vaccine to all children and adults.

Vaccinating chicken pox is important because many children scratch on the rash may get scars. It is a contagious virus and spreads easily from person to person in close contact. Children who play together may get infected soon. In some rare cases, children affected with chicken pox may get Pneumonia.

The child infected with chicken pox must be at home at least for 10 days. You should not allow him to play until it is confirmed that he is no more contagious. Don't allow the child to go to school or other places.

The vaccine may cause slight irritation and mild fever. In rare case, some child may get mild chicken pox. Vaccination can be provided to children above 1 year. Check whether they have normal health condition before they are vaccinated. For children fro 1 to 12 years one dose is enough. For children more than 12 years 2 doses with 1 weak interval should be provided.

The chicken pox vaccine should not be given to persons suffering from severe fever or a pregnant woman. People with HIV and people who undergo cancer treatment should not be given chicken pox vaccine. There are no adverse effects for this vaccine. It is safe and effective. Up to 90 % of the people who get Chicken pox vaccine will not get the disease.

Even though chicken pox vaccine is not compulsory, it is advisable for those who are in contact with more people often like teachers, day care center workers, college students, military people and staffs of correctional institutions. Women should not pregnant for one month after vaccinating for chicken pox. People who receive blood transfusion should not get vaccinated for 5 months. People who are allergic to gelatin should inform their doctor. Yet there are gelatin free chicken pox vaccines .

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