A varicella vaccine has been administered to children over one year and to adults since 1995. It is seventy to eight percent effective in preventing even a mild case of chickenpox and higher than ninety five percent effective in preventing severe cases. Those who contact chickenpox after being vaccinated experience only mild symptoms and get far fewer blisters than those who aren’t vaccinated.
If parents desire, their children who are between one year and eighteen months old will automatically receive the vaccine. Adolescents and adults who haven’t had chickenpox can also be vaccinated if they wish. Children between one and twelve need only one vaccination. Adults and adolescents require two in order to be protected and they must be given after a minimum time frame of one month.
Newborns that are in danger because their mothers contacted chickenpox during pregnancy can receive varicella-zoster immune globulin. This can also be administered to patients with low immune systems, including, but not limited to, those with HIV, cancer and others who are taking medications or drugs that may weaken their immune system.
If your child is healthy and has already had chickenpox, they do not need to be vaccinated. They will have protection from the varicella virus for the rest of their lives.
Home Treatment
Most cases of chickenpox can be treated successfully at home. Fever and itching are the worst side effects of chickenpox. Never give aspirin to children with chickenpox or any other viral illness. Aspirin has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, which can lead to liver damage, brain damage and death. Instead, give your child a fever relieving product such as Tempra. Adults can take Tylenol.