• UGI USER
  • Nov 19, 2023
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CHICKENPOX VACCINATION

Why in the News ?

Recent U.S. data spanning 25 years highlights the significant decline in chickenpox and shingles cases among children, challenging prior fears of adverse consequences.

Source: Medical News Today

Chickenpox

· Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

· It primarily affects children, but people of all ages can contract the virus.

· The characteristic symptom of chickenpox is a red, itchy rash that starts on the face and torso and then spreads throughout the body.

Shingles

· Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox.

· After a person has had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues. Later in life, it can reactivate, leading to the development of shingles.

Impact on Children and Adults

  • Chickenpox, typically mild in children, can lead to severe complications and even death.
  • In adults, the dormant virus can cause shingles, a concern initially linked to widespread chickenpox vaccination.

U.S. Data Insights:

  • A comprehensive 25-year study (1995-2019) demonstrated a sharp reduction in chickenpox and shingles cases in children.
  • For adults, shingles cases did not surge, aligning with earlier findings.

Effectiveness and U.S. Impact:

  • Since its U.S. introduction, the vaccine has prevented over 91 million chickenpox cases, nearly 2,38,000 hospitalisations, and almost 2,000 deaths, underscoring its efficacy.

Indian Perspective:

  • Varicella vaccination is available in India, but it is often administered as part of optional or private vaccination
  • India is yet to include the varicella vaccine in the universal immunisation programme.
  • Data limitations hinder a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and understanding the disease burden.

Public Health Priorities in India:

  • Experts stress the importance of expanding vaccination programmes in India, focusing on diseases like diphtheria and pertussis.
  • Published studies indicate a lower risk of shingles, emphasizing local context awareness.

Expert opinions affirm the clear benefits of the chickenpox vaccine, challenging any lingering ideologies suggesting infection benefits children at a population level.