Varicella vaccine in post-exposure prophylaxis
1South Eastem Sydney Public Health Unit, Locked Bag 88, Randwick, NSW, Australia 2031. fersonm@sesahs.nsw.gov.au
Communicable Diseases Intelligence
|March 31, 2001
Summary
Oka-based varicella vaccines show effectiveness when given to children within 3 days of exposure to the varicella zoster virus. Some vaccinated children may still develop mild, infectious chickenpox, particularly after household exposure.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox, a highly contagious disease.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) strategies for VZV are crucial for disease control.
- Oka-based varicella vaccines are widely used for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on the effectiveness of Oka-based varicella vaccines for post-exposure prophylaxis of VZV.
- To assess the utility of vaccination in domestic and healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing evidence on Oka-derived varicella vaccine administration post-VZV exposure.
- Analysis of vaccine effectiveness in children and consideration of adult populations.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports post-exposure vaccination in children within 3 days of rash onset in the index case.
- A small percentage of vaccinated children may still contract mild, infectious chickenpox, especially with household exposure.
- Controlled studies on adult PEP with Varilrix and Varivax II are lacking.
Conclusions:
- Oka-based varicella vaccination can be effective as post-exposure prophylaxis in children.
- Further research is needed for adult populations and broader application in community and healthcare settings.
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