Chickenpox is generally regarded as a normal childhood infection, but there can occasionally be complications. In adults, pregnant women, infants and people with weak immunity the infection can be more serious.
The good news is that chickenpox is vaccine-preventable. The varicella vaccine prevents varicella, the disease caused by varicella-zoster virus. Knowing what the varicella vaccine is, when it is given and how many doses are needed can help families in India make informed decisions about vaccination.
What is chickenpox? What are the causes and symptoms of chickenpox?
Chickenpox (varicella) is a very contagious viral infection caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). It is spread by respiratory droplets and by contact with fluid from the blisters.
Typical symptoms are:
- Fever and fatigue
- Less appetite
- Itchy rashes
- Blisters with fluid inside
- Blisters that ultimately dry and develop scabs
A person can spread chickenpox from about 1-2 days before the rash appears until the blisters have crusted over. Most children recover without major problems but complications such as bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, and inflammation.
How the Varicella Vaccine Works?
The varicella vaccine contains a weakened virus that helps the immune system develop protection against chicken pox.
The vaccine can be given as a single varicella vaccine or, in some countries, as a combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.
One important difference is that varicella and zoster vaccines are not substitutable. Chickenpox vaccine is used to prevent chickenpox. Zoster vaccines are used to protect eligible adults against shingles.
Benefits of Vaccination Against Chickenpox
The main purpose of the chickenpox prevention vaccine is to decrease the chances of getting chickenpox and the likelihood of a severe form of the disease.
The US CDC says two doses of the chickenpox vaccine are about 90% effective. Breakthrough infections can still happen, but vaccinated folks who get chickenpox tend to have a milder illness.
Vaccination also helps slow the spread of disease in families, schools and communities.
Recommended Vaccination Schedule for Children and Adults
In India, as per the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) and CDC guidelines following is the varicella vaccination schedule for children and adolescents:
|
Group |
Varicella Vaccine Schedule |
|
Children in India |
1st dose around 15 months; 2nd dose 3–6 months later or at 4–6 years |
|
Adults without immunity |
2 doses, generally at least 4 weeks apart |
|
After exposure |
Vaccination may be useful within 3–5 days, where appropriate |
Varicella Vaccine After Exposure
Sometimes vaccination can still be helpful after exposure to chickenpox. CDC guidance recommends vaccination, as appropriate, within 3-5 days after exposure, as it may prevent disease or reduce the severity of disease.
People who are pregnant or have certain immune conditions require specific medical advice rather than routine vaccination after exposure.
Common Myths About the Varicella Vaccine
-
“Chickenpox is harmless”
Not always. Although most children recover well, complications can occur, particularly among adults, infants, pregnant women and people with weakened immunity.
-
“One dose is enough”
The recommended schedule generally involves two doses for adequate protection. The timing depends on age and vaccination guidelines.
-
“The chickenpox vaccine prevents shingles”
The varicella vaccine prevents chickenpox. Zoster vaccination is a separate vaccination strategy used to prevent shingles in eligible adults.
The Impact of Vaccination on Public Health
Chickenpox spreads easily, so vaccination can help protect not only the individual but also people around them.
Countries with established two-dose vaccination programmes have seen substantial reductions in chickenpox. In the United States, varicella incidence declined by more than 97% by 2018–2019 compared with the pre-vaccine period.
In India, varicella vaccination is recommended by the IAP but is not included in the country's Universal Immunisation Programme. Families considering vaccination can therefore discuss the appropriate schedule with a paediatrician or vaccination specialist.
Side Effects and Safety of the Varicella Vaccine
Like other vaccines, the varicella vaccine can cause temporary side effects. Common reactions include:
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Mild rash
Serious reactions are rare.
Because it is a live attenuated vaccine, varicella vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy. People with certain immune conditions may also need specialist advice before vaccination.
What is the Varicella Vaccine Price in India?
The cost of varicella vaccine in India depends on the brand of vaccine, the provider and the number of doses needed. There is not one varicella vaccine rate for all vaccination centers.
Families are advised to check the current price and availability of the vaccine before making a booking. The overall price can also vary based on if one or two doses are needed.
The Bottom Line on Chickenpox Prevention!
Chickenpox is common, but it doesn't have to be inevitable. The varicella vaccine can greatly reduce the chance of getting infected and of having serious complications.
The right amount of varicella vaccine and when it should be given for children and adults thinking about getting vaccinated depends on their age, whether they have been vaccinated before, whether they have ever had chickenpox and their own health situation.
INVC can help families understand available varicella vaccination options through vaccine expert consultation, with vaccination available at home or at an INVC vaccination centre, subject to vaccine and location availability.
