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Varicella vaccine: the Japanese experience
1Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|November 1, 1996
Summary
The Biken Institute varicella vaccine demonstrated excellent safety and efficacy in over 3 million individuals. This live attenuated vaccine provides long-term protection against varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox, a highly contagious disease.
- Effective vaccination strategies are crucial for preventing VZV outbreaks and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term safety and efficacy of the Biken Institute's live attenuated varicella vaccine.
- To evaluate the duration of protective immunity conferred by the vaccine.
Main Methods:
- Post-licensure surveillance of 1.39 million subjects in Japan and 1.93 million in Korea (1987-1993).
- Monitoring of clinical symptoms, seroconversion rates, and antibody titers post-vaccination.
- Assessment of breakthrough varicella cases and long-term immunologic memory (humoral and cellular immunity).
Main Results:
- High seroconversion rate (91.5%) and sustained antibody titers.
- Low incidence of breakthrough varicella (2%) with mild clinical features after VZV exposure.
- Evidence of long-term (≥20 years) humoral and cellular immunity to VZV.
Conclusions:
- The Biken Institute varicella vaccine is safe and effective for preventing VZV infection.
- The vaccine induces durable protective immunity, offering long-term protection against chickenpox.