Chickenpox (or varicella) has long been one of the nation’s most common childhood viral diseases. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 95% of people in the U.S. develop the disease. Each year, 100 of the 3.5 million reported cases result in death.

Fortunately, a newly available vaccine has proven 70-90% effective in preventing chickenpox. The varicella vaccine, previously used only in children with certain conditions, was approved for general use by the FDA in March 1995.

Dr. John Costa, Pediatrician at MKMG’s Yorktown office, highly recommends the varicella vaccine, with good reason. In 1984, a child under his care developed myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and died as a result of the chickenpox virus. Had this otherwise healthy child been vaccinated, he might still be alive today.

Dr. Costa says that while 85% of his patients are vaccinated, some parents decide against it. "Some parents believe it’s better to let their children contract the virus, since it’s the only way to ensure they won’t get chickenpox again. This is a mistake," he said.

A minority of vaccinated children will still get the virus. Yet, those who do usually have very mild cases, with fewer skin lesions, lower fevers and quicker recovery. And, vaccinated individuals may have a lower risk of getting shingles later in life.

The varicella vaccine can be give at any age after one year, and is usually started following a child’s first birthday. Dr. Costa believes it may soon become one of the FDA’s required immunizations.

Side effects are generally minor, and may include redness, stiffness and soreness where the shot is given, as well as a mild rash and fever. Pregnant women and those with weak immune systems should not be vaccinated.

To date, the vaccine’s efficacy has been proven to last 13 years in the U.S. (25 years in Japan because it has been used there longer). A booster shot may be required later in life.

"The vaccine’s minor side effects, along with the small chance of getting a milder form of chickenpox later on, are small prices to pay when you consider the risks of contracting the full virus," Dr. Costa said. "And, if everyone is vaccinated now, the chickenpox virus could become virtually extinct in the future."

For more information on chickenpox and the varicella vaccine, contact your MKMG physician or pediatrician.