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Contents
  • The Impact of Vaccination
  • How the Vaccine Works
  • Breakthrough Infections

How Effective is the Chickenpox Vaccine?

How Effective is the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The Big Question

The chickenpox vaccine has changed the landscape of this once-common childhood disease. But how effective is it really in preventing outbreaks and complications?
Contents
  • The Impact of Vaccination
  • How the Vaccine Works
  • Breakthrough Infections

The Impact of Vaccination

Since its introduction in 1995, the chickenpox vaccine has significantly decreased the number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths associated with the disease. Vaccination is recommended for all children before the age of five years and for nonimmune adults. The vaccine has also contributed to a decline in severe cases and complications, making chickenpox far less of a public health concern.

How the Vaccine Works

The chickenpox vaccine contains a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus, which stimulates the immune system to develop protective antibodies. This means if a vaccinated person is exposed to the virus, their immune system can fight it off more effectively. While the vaccine isn't 100% foolproof, vaccinated individuals who do contract the virus typically experience a much milder form of the disease.
The chickenpox vaccine is an immunization against the varicella-zoster virus, significantly reducing the incidence of chickenpox and its complications.

Breakthrough Infections

In rare cases, vaccinated individuals can still get chickenpox, known as 'breakthrough' infections. These cases are generally milder and shorter in duration, with fewer blisters and less severe symptoms. Studies indicate that breakthrough rates are low, and complications from these cases are uncommon, highlighting the vaccine's role in controlling the disease's severity.

FAQs

How effective is the chickenpox vaccine?

The vaccine greatly reduces the risk of infection and severe complications.

Can vaccinated people still get chickenpox?

Yes, but these 'breakthrough' cases are usually mild.

What age should children get vaccinated?

Vaccination is recommended before the age of five.

Does the vaccine prevent complications?

Yes, it significantly lowers the chance of severe disease and complications.

The Bottom Line

The chickenpox vaccine is a key tool in reducing the impact of this contagious disease.
Get started: Discuss with Doctronic about chickenpox vaccination for your family today.
Additional References
  1. Straus SE, Ostrove JM, Inchauspé G, et al. NIH conference. Varicella-zoster virus infections. Ann Intern Med 1988; 108:221.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recommended childhood immunization schedule--United States, January-June 1996. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 1996; 44:940.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.