Varicella vaccination guidelines for adolescents and adults

Varicella is a highly communicable infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Although generally a benign, self-limited disease, varicella infection may be associated with serious complications, especially in older adults and young infants. Live attenuated varicella vaccine was licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in March 1995. Assessment of varicella immunity status and vaccination of susceptible persons are desirable in all adolescents and adults. Vaccination guidelines stress a systematic review of several factors: neomycin sensitivity, immunosuppressed status, current health and use of medications (particularly corticosteroids), recent use of immune globulin, risk of pregnancy, lactation status and risk of inadvertent transmission to vulnerable contacts.