Varicella surveillance and policy in the United States and Minnesota

An estimated 82.7% of Minnesota children 19 months to 35 months of age were vaccinated against varicella in 2006 as a result of accepted national recommendations, provider education, and vaccination mandates. Despite the wide-ranging acceptance of vaccination, outbreaks of varicella continue to occur in schools and childcare centers, even those with a high percentage of vaccinated children. As a result, national recommendations have been modified to include a universal second dose of vaccine. Starting in September 2008, students entering kindergarten or 7th grade in Minnesota will be required to provide documentation of having had 2 doses of varicella vaccine, a history of the disease, or legal exemption.