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How to Stay One Step Ahead of Chickenpox
Published: Feb 13, 2024
Preventing chickenpox is better than treating it, especially when you know what's at stake. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Importance of Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox, especially for those at high risk like healthcare workers. The vaccine significantly reduces the chances of contracting the disease and can prevent severe symptoms. Ensuring vaccination can also protect against the future reactivation of VZV as shingles.
Serologic Testing for Immunity
Serologic testing checks for antibodies to determine if someone is immune to chickenpox. It's particularly useful for healthcare workers who need to confirm immunity before exposure. While some tests are less sensitive, they are still valuable for assessing the need for vaccination.
When to Consider Testing
Testing is advised for individuals at high risk of exposure, like healthcare workers or those born after 1980 without a known history of infection. This helps ensure that susceptible individuals are identified and vaccinated, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
It significantly reduces the risk of infection and severe symptoms.
Healthcare workers or those unsure of their immunity status.
Yes, it helps prevent VZV reactivation as shingles.
No, mainly for those at high risk or born after 1980.
Staying Protected
By understanding prevention methods, you can protect yourself and others from chickenpox and its complications.
References
- Williams V, et al. J Infect Dis 1974; 130:669.
- Breuer J, et al. J Infect Dis 2008; 197 Suppl 2:S147.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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