What is chicken pox? Chicken pox is a very common infectious disease in children, which is caused by a virus called Varicella-Zoster Virus. This disease usually presents with fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and an itchy skin rash. Although this disease is mild in most children and recovers without serious complications, it can be associated with dangerous complications in some age groups and if it is contracted in adulthood. Importance of varicella vaccine Varicella vaccine is the best way to prevent chicken pox. This vaccine protects the person against the virus by stimulating the body's immune system. Global studies have shown that the incidence of chicken pox has decreased drastically in countries with public vaccination programs. Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam, a pediatric specialist, believes that the chicken pox vaccine is one of the necessary vaccines for children and recommends that parents inject the vaccine according to the children's vaccination schedule. How does the varicella vaccine work? Varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine. That is, there is a live but weakened virus in the vaccine that stimulates the body's immune system without causing serious illness. As a result, the body produces antibodies against the real virus and can protect the body in case of subsequent contact with the virus. Who should receive the varicella vaccine? According to global guidelines (such as the US CDC), all children should receive the first dose of chickenpox vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. These two doses provide adequate immunity. If a school-age child has not received the vaccine, he can inject the vaccine at an older age. Also, in some countries, vaccination is recommended for adults who did not get chickenpox or were not vaccinated. Who should not get varicella vaccine? - Children and adults who have immune system defects (such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy). - pregnant women; Because the vaccine is live and dangerous for the fetus. - Those who have a history of severe allergy to the vaccine or its components. Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam emphasizes that before injecting the vaccine, the doctor must check the medical records of the person so that if there are any contraindications to the injection, the appropriate decision can be made. Varicella vaccine side effects The varicella vaccine is usually safe and does not cause serious side effects. The most common side effects are mild and transient: - Redness or swelling at the injection site - Mild fever - Mild rash (in few cases) Severe side effects such as an allergic reaction are very rare. In case of high fever or allergic reaction, parents should see a doctor immediately. Is the varicella vaccine 100% effective? No vaccine has 100% protection. But the chicken pox vaccine prevents severe infection in more than 90% of cases. In case of infection after vaccination, the disease is usually very mild and has no complications. Varicella and shingles vaccine One of the important points about the varicella virus is that after contracting chicken pox, the virus can remain hidden in a person's body and appear as shingles years later. Vaccination in childhood reduces the risk of shingles in adulthood. Tips that parents should know - If your child has recently received another vaccine, the interval between varicella vaccine and some live vaccines (such as measles, rubella, and mumps) should be at least four weeks. - Children who take immunosuppressive drugs should not be vaccinated. - After the varicella vaccine injection, the child can continue daily activities, but in case of fever or lethargy, it is better to rest. - If your child has a history of severe allergy to gelatin or neomycin antibiotic, be sure to discuss the matter with the doctor. Why should vaccination be under the supervision of a doctor? Varicella vaccine should be injected in accredited medical centers and by an experienced doctor or nurse. Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam recommends that the vaccine be administered in a safe environment under the supervision of a doctor so that immediate measures can be taken in case of severe allergy. Final speech of Dr. Cambys Herman Moghadam Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam, with years of experience working in the field of vaccination of infants and children, emphasizes that the chicken pox vaccine is one of the best ways to prevent contracting this viral disease. He advises parents to get vaccinations on time to keep their children safe from infectious diseases. summary Chicken pox is a common disease, but in some cases it is dangerous. Varicella vaccine is the best way to prevent this disease. - Two doses of vaccine are enough for children. - The vaccine must be injected under the supervision of a doctor and in accredited centers. - In case of allergy or special disease, injection should be done with doctor's advice. If you need advice and injection of chicken pox vaccine for your child, you can contact the office of Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam and get an appointment.