Chickenpox Vaccine
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to Fact SheetsWhat is chickenpox?
Chickenpox disease (varicella) is a common childhood illness. It can
also cause illness in adolescents and adults. The disease is caused by a
virus called varicella-zoster. Chickenpox disease is highly contagious and
is easily spread through the air or by direct contact with the chickenpox
blisters. Chickenpox can cause scarring of the skin, skin infections,
pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Every year in
Canada, several individuals die from complications related to chickenpox.
Chickenpox vaccine (brand name -Varivax) protects recipients from chickenpox
disease.
How well does the chickenpox vaccine protect against the disease?
The vaccine offers 70 - 90 per cent protection against chickenpox of any
severity and 95 per cent protection against severe chickenpox for at least
seven to 10 years after vaccination.
Who should receive the vaccine?
Individuals aged 12 months and older who have not had chickenpox.
Who should not have chickenpox vaccine?
Your family doctor may decide not to give the vaccine to someone who: _ is
ill with fever or infection worse than a cold _ has had a serious allergic
reaction to this vaccine in the past _ has a severe allergy to any component
of the vaccine, including gelatin and neomycin _ has a disease or is taking
a medication that lowers the body's ability to fight infections _ is
pregnant or breastfeeding (Pregnancy should be avoided for three months
following vaccination with chickenpox vaccine.) _ has recently received a
blood or plasma transfusion or immune globulin _ is taking acetylsalicylic
acid (ASA or Aspirin). Vaccine recipients should avoid use of ASA for six
weeks after receiving chickenpox vaccine
Can chickenpox vaccine be given with other vaccines?
Studies have shown that chickenpox vaccine may be given with other vaccines
at separate sites using separate needles. Is chickenpox vaccine safe? Yes.
Side effects are usually mild and may include: _ soreness, swelling and
redness at the spot where the needle was given _ fever _ varicella-like rash
(at injection site and generalized). During clinical trials, rash occured in
less than four per cent of children and less than six per cent of adults and
adolescents. Rarely, transmission of vaccine virus may occur between
vaccinated individuals who develop a varicella-like rash and susceptible
individuals. A person who has rash should avoid close contacts for up to six
weeks with susceptible high-risk individuals. They are: _ people who have
HIV, leukemia, receive cancer chemotherapy _ newborns of mothers who have
not had chickenpox _ pregnant women who have not had chickenpox
Will my health insurance cover chickenpox vaccine?
The provincial government in Ontario will be targeting certain populations
in September 2004. Some private health insurance plans may cover the cost.
The approximate cost is $75 - $87 per dose of vaccine.
When should I see a health professional after vaccination?
Vaccine recipients should see a doctor, nurse practitioner or go to the
emergency department at the nearest hospital if they develop any of the
following symptoms within three days of getting the vaccine: _ high fever
(over 40°C or 104°F) _ screaming episode - the child cries/screams for at
least three hours or the sound of the cry is very different _ convulsions or
seizures _ very pale skin colour and/or unusual drowsiness _ hives (itchy
rash) _ swelling of the face or mouth _ trouble breathing _ other serious
medical problems
Where can I learn more about chickenpox vaccine?
Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner. For more information on
immunization, the Day Nurseries Act or the Immunization of School Pupil's
Act, call 1-800-660-5853.
Personal Immunization Record (yellow card)
After you or your child receive any vaccine: _ make sure the doctor updates
the personal Immunization Record _ notify Health Action Line at
1-800-660-5853. Keep your Immunization Record in a safe place with your
other important documents.
At what age should chickenpox vaccine be given? Age at first dose
Schedule
12 months - 12 years of age One dose 13 years of age and older Two doses
(four - eight weeks apart)
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Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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