Chickenpox Vaccine: Everything You Need To Know

What is chickenpox infection?

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that is most commonly seen in children. The virus typically causes a rash of small, itchy blisters, which can appear anywhere on the body. Chickenpox is usually a mild illness, and most people recover within a week or two unless they are infected with severe chickenpox. However, the virus can cause more severe illness in some people, particularly infants, immunocompromised people and adults.

Chickenpox infection is caused by the chickenpox virus or more accurately varicella zoster virus.

Symptoms of chickenpox include

• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Rashes. The rash appears usually a few days after the above symptoms. It starts as small red bumps and turns into fluid-filled blisters which become crusted in a few days. This is when chickenpox infection is highly contagious. Hence the patient should be isolated from healthy children during this period. The itchy rash can be treated with calamine lotion. Keep your child's fingernails short and refrain your child from scratching.

Chickenpox can be severe, especially in young children and adults. In rare cases, chickenpox can lead to serious health complications such as:

• Pneumonia
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Skin infection
• Bloodstream infection

Healthy individuals can catch chickenpox through direct contact with the fluid from the blistering rash or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is a highly contagious disease. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get vaccinated.

Treatment for chickenpox usually consists of fever control using paracetamol, taking balanced meals and for the patient to drink plenty of water. Hands should be kept clean and so does the blistering skin to avoid infection. Most children recover within a week or two. Antiviral drugs are usually prescribed to those at risk of severe forms of infection to prevent complications.

1. What is the chickenpox vaccine/varicella vaccine and how does it work

The chickenpox vaccine or varicella zoster vaccine is a safe and effective way to help prevent the chickenpox virus. The vaccine works by protecting against the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox. The vaccine is made from a weakened form of the virus, so it can’t cause chickenpox. However, it can help the body build up immunity to the virus.

The chickenpox vaccine is more than 90% effective at preventing chickenpox. It’s also been shown to reduce the severity of the disease and prevent serious complications in those who do get chickenpox.

2. Who should get the chickenpox/varicella vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine or varicella vaccine is recommended for all children, starting at the age of 12 months. It’s also recommended for adults who have never had chickenpox or who haven’t been vaccinated. This includes people who are at increased risk for complications from chickenpox or have high virus exposure such as healthcare workers.

Children vaccinated against the varicella virus are protected against severe illness from this infection. While a person who has received the vaccination may still get the disease, it will be in much milder form with milder symptoms.

Women of childbearing age who have never been infected or vaccinated should get the shot to prevent congenital infection. This should be done before they start a family and pregnancy should be avoided 3 months after vaccination. This vaccination should not be given to pregnant women.

3. How is the chickenpox vaccine administered?

The chickenpox vaccine or known as the varicella zoster vaccine is usually given in 2 doses. The first dose is at 12-18 months old and the second dose at 4-6 years old. For older children, 2 doses are given at 4 to 8 weeks intervals.

4. What are the side effects of the chickenpox vaccine? Is it safe?

The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective. The most common side effect is a mild rash that usually goes away within a few days. Other side effects can include fevers and soreness at the injection site.

Serious side effects are incredibly rare, and the chickenpox vaccine is overall considered to be very safe. Consequently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children get the chickenpox vaccine.

5. Where can I get a chickenpox vaccine in Malaysia?

The chickenpox vaccine is available from a number of sources in Malaysia. The private sector like general practitioners and family physicians offers the vaccine, as do many clinics and hospitals.

6. How much does the chickenpox vaccine cost in Malaysia?

The cost of chickenpox vaccination in Malaysia varies depending on the type of vaccine used and the place of vaccination.

The cost of chickenpox vaccination ranges from RM180-250. In general, the total cost of chickenpox vaccination (including consultation fees) ranges from RM200-300. The best way to find out the exact cost is to contact your chosen provider directly.

7. What if I have already had chickenpox

Most people who have had chickenpox will not get it again because their body has built up immunity to the virus. However, the virus can remain inactive in the body, and it is possible for someone who has previously had chickenpox to develop shingles.

Shingle is a painful rash that develops when the chickenpox virus that stays dormant in your nerve cells becomes active again. The risk of developing shingles increases with age, and people who have a weakened immune system are more likely to experience a flare-up of the virus.

Symptoms typically appear as a painful rash with what looks like chickenpox blisters on one side of the body. The rash usually lasts for 2-4 weeks, and the pain can last for weeks or months after the rash has cleared. It can be a very serious condition, particularly in older adults.

There is no cure for shingles, but there are treatments that can help to reduce the pain and speed up the healing process. If you have previously had chickenpox, it is important to be aware of the signs of shingles and to contact your doctor if you think you may be developing the condition.

8. Will the chickenpox vaccine protect me from shingles?

The chickenpox vaccine offers excellent protection against the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes herpes zoster/shingles. If you have already had chickenpox, you are still at risk of developing shingles, but the vaccine can help to reduce your risk.

9. What is the relation between Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and chickenpox?

Chickenpox and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome are both caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is a rare neurological condition that can occur when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates. It is characterized by facial paralysis, pain, and a rash of blisters. The condition can be very serious, and it is often accompanied by complications such as meningitis or hearing loss.

While anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, the condition is most often seen in people over the age of 50. Treatment for Ramsay Hunt Syndrome typically includes antiviral medications and steroids.

Book a chickenpox vaccination appointment for your child with DoctorOnCall today for a hassle-free vaccination experience. Our doctors will be happy to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious illness.

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