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Varicella: a vaccine preventable disease?
1Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein Hospital, Division of Disease Control, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, PA, USA. barbara.watson@phil.gov
The Journal of Infection
|July 9, 2002
Summary
The varicella vaccine is safe and effective, significantly reducing chickenpox cases where vaccination rates are high. Continued universal vaccination is crucial to prevent disease in susceptible individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunization Science
- Vaccinology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Varicella (chickenpox) poses a significant public health concern due to its potential complications.
- The development and implementation of a varicella vaccine have aimed to control disease incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review varicella disease epidemiology, vaccine development, and universal vaccination strategies.
- To address common questions and issues regarding the varicella vaccine since its licensure.
Main Methods:
- Review of varicella disease complications pre-licensure.
- Analysis of vaccine safety data from clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance.
- Assessment of vaccine impact on disease incidence in areas with high coverage.
Main Results:
- Varicella vaccine safety is confirmed by extensive data.
- Significant decline in varicella incidence observed in populations with over 70% vaccine coverage, particularly in young children.
- Concerns exist regarding susceptible individuals reaching adulthood without immunity due to suboptimal universal vaccination practices.
Conclusions:
- Varicella disease incidence has decreased in regions with moderate vaccine coverage.
- Sustained implementation of varicella vaccination policies will further reduce disease burden in the USA.