Chickenpox is a viral infection that often causes bothersome yet mild symptoms in children. However, adults with chickenpox have a risk of more serious complications and health effects. While the virus was once extremely common, vaccination has reduced infections and prevented symptoms in millions of people.
Early vaccination against chickenpox prevents infections and stops the virus from spreading to others. As a result, parents are encouraged to have their children vaccinated between 12 and 15 months and again at 4 to 6 years old.
Adults can also receive the vaccine. Additionally, the chickenpox vaccine can help unvaccinated people that have been recently exposed to the virus by decreasing the severity of symptoms and protecting against future infections.
There are a few circumstances where doctors may caution against the vaccine. For example, people undergoing cancer treatment, pregnant women, people with allergies to vaccine components, and those taking immunosuppressant drugs may not be eligible. A medical professional can assess your health to help you make the right decision.
In the event an unvaccinated child or adult is exposed to the varicella-zoster virus, the following treatments can help:
Scratching can damage skin and possibly lead to bacterial infections, so it must be avoided. When caring for yourself or your child, keep fingernails trim and discourage scratching as much as possible.
Adults are more likely to experience serious infections and may receive antiviral drugs under select circumstances. This means that people with a higher risk of complications or those with compromised immune systems could receive medication. Possible complications of chickenpox include:
The best way to avoid these severe outcomes is by getting vaccinated, and parents should speak with their child’s doctor about scheduling vaccinations in early childhood.