Let's learn everything about the Chickenpox Vaccine in a simple way!

Remember when we were kids? When someone in a family got chickenpox, it spread to everyone else in the family. You would have blisters all over your body, you couldn't stop scratching, and you would have to stay home for weeks with great difficulty. While this was common in the past, today there is a very effective way to protect children and adults from this disease. That is the chickenpox vaccine. So today, let's talk about this chickenpox vaccine, or `Varicella vaccine`.

Simply put, what is this chickenpox vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is a two-dose vaccine that protects you and your child from chickenpox. Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a rash-like rash all over the body, and can sometimes lead to serious complications.

This vaccine largely prevents chickenpox. Even if you get chickenpox after getting the万が一 (만일) vaccine, it is very mild and heals quickly . It does not become serious.

What types of vaccines are these?

There are two main types of chickenpox vaccine approved for use worldwide. Your doctor will choose the one that is best for your child.

So which of these two is better?

The ProQuad® vaccine provides protection against all four diseases at once, which can reduce the number of shots. However, some studies have shown that children under 4 years of age who receive the first dose of ProQuad® are at a slightly higher risk of developing fever or febrile seizures than those who receive the vaccine separately. For this reason, pediatricians around the world often recommend:

• First dose between 12-15 months: given as two separate vaccines (chickenpox vaccine and MMR vaccine) on the same day.
• Second dose between 4-6 years: ProQuad® (MMRV) given as a single injection.

However, the best advice on this is from your child's doctor . He or she will assess the child's health and decide what is most appropriate.

Who should get this vaccine?

In general, it is very important for all children and adults who have not had chickenpox before and have not fully received the chickenpox vaccine to get this vaccine.

For children

The chickenpox vaccine is an important part of the recommended childhood vaccination schedule. Although it may not be included in the government vaccination program in Sri Lanka, pediatricians recommend that your child receive it privately.

• First dose (Dose 1): Between 12 and 15 months of age.
• Second dose (Dose 2): Between 4 and 6 years of age.

The second dose can be given at least 3 months after the first dose. Your doctor will tell you the best time to give it.

For adults

Chickenpox can be very serious if it occurs in adults who have not had chickenpox as a child and have not been vaccinated. The risk of complications is high. So, if you are not sure if you have had chickenpox as a child, it is best to talk to a doctor. You may be able to get a blood test to see if you are immune. If you are not immune, it is important to get both doses of the vaccine. This is especially important if you:

• If you are a healthcare worker (such as a doctor or nurse).
• If you are a teacher/employee at a school or kindergarten.
• If you work or live in a residential facility, such as a nursing home.
• If you live with someone with a low immune system.
• If you are hoping to get pregnant.
• If you are a university student.
• If you are in military service.
• If you travel abroad frequently.

For those over 13 years of age, the two doses are given at least 28 days apart.

Who should not get the vaccine? (Those who should be cautious)

Some people may not be eligible for this vaccine for medical reasons. If you or your child has any of the following conditions, be sure to discuss this with your doctor before getting the vaccine .

• If you have a disease (e.g. HIV) or are taking medication (e.g. steroids) that affects the immune system.
• If anyone in your family (mother, father, siblings) has an innate immune system weakness.
• If you have tuberculosis.
• If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
• If you are taking salicylates such as aspirin.
• If you have cancer.
• If you have recently received blood or blood components (`immune globulin`).
• If you have received another live virus vaccine within the last 28 days.
• If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to the chickenpox vaccine or anything in it.

Are there any side effects of the vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is a very safe vaccine . However, like all other medicines, it can cause minor side effects. There is nothing to worry about, these usually go away within a day or two.

Can you get chickenpox even if you get the vaccine?

Yes, there is a small chance. It's called `breakthrough varicella.' But even if it does happen, someone who has completed both doses will have a very low risk of developing the disease . They may get a few blisters and recover in two to three days without a fever. Someone who has only received one dose may have a slightly longer course of symptoms. That's why it's important to complete both doses .

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