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Chickenpox
1School of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
BMJ Clinical Evidence
|May 21, 2009
Summary
This review examines chickenpox prevention and treatment interventions for various populations. It found evidence on the effectiveness and safety of vaccines, antivirals like acyclovir, and immunoglobulins.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chickenpox (varicella) is highly contagious, with over 90% of unvaccinated individuals contracting the virus.
- Age of infection varies globally, with earlier onset in developed nations compared to some Asian and Caribbean regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review interventions for preventing chickenpox in healthy and immunocompromised individuals, including those with prenatal exposure.
- To evaluate treatments for chickenpox in both healthy and immunocompromised patients.
- To assess the safety and effectiveness of various interventions.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a systematic review of literature up to March 2007, searching major databases.
- Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, and harms alerts from regulatory agencies.
- Utilized GRADE evaluation to assess the quality of evidence for interventions.
Main Results:
- Identified 13 systematic reviews, RCTs, or observational studies meeting inclusion criteria.
- Evaluated the quality of evidence for various interventions using the GRADE system.
- Compiled data on the effectiveness of interventions.
Conclusions:
- Presents information on the effectiveness and safety of key interventions.
- Includes acyclovir, famciclovir, live attenuated vaccine, valaciclovir, varicella zoster immunoglobulin, and zoster immunoglobulin.
- Provides a comprehensive overview of chickenpox management options.
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