VARICELLA VIRUS (CHICKENPOX) VACCINE

VARICELLA VIRUS (CHICKENPOX) VACCINE

A live attenuated varicella virus vaccine (Varilrix, Okavax) provides a high degree of protection against chickenpox. It is quite expensive.

Indication

Active immunization against chickenpox after 1 year of age.

Dose

Varilrix is administrated as a single dose(0.5 ml SC) 1-12 years of age. Thereafter, i.e. 13 years and later, it requires to be given in two doses 6-10 weeks apart.  The other varicella virus vaccine, Okavax, is recommended as a single dose for all ages.

Contraindications

1. Acute severe febrile illness
2. HIV subjects with lymphopenia (TLC <1200 mm^3)
3. Neomycin hypersensitivity

Adverse reactions

Both the vaccines are quite safe and well tolerated. Locally, a mild transient reaction may occur. Rarely, rash may be encountered.

Protection

In children exposed to chickenpox case, efficacy is 80% in protecting against chickenpox provided that it is administrated within 3 days of exposure to a case of chickenpox.