Likelihood of chickenpox in adults vaccinated as children

Likelihood of chickenpox in adults vaccinated as children

Does Adult Need Chickenpox Vaccine?

There is still some controversy regarding the vaccine, however. Some feel that if the vaccine is given to every baby, and if its effectiveness wanes over the years, then many adults of that generation will be susceptible to the virus. Since the disease is much more severe in adults than in children, that would lead to more-serious infections in the long run.
 

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Arch Fam Med 1997 Nov-Dec;6(6):537-41 Related Articles, Books, LinkOut

Concerns regarding universal varicella immunization. Time will tell.

MacFarlane LL, Sanders ML, Carek PJ.

Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA. macfarll@musc.edu

The American Academy of Pediatrics, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and the American Academy of Family Physicians now recommend universal immunization for varicella for all susceptible children and adolescents. Although the varicella vaccine appears safe and efficacious, it is unknown how universal immunization will influence the epidemiology of varicella infections. The duration of immunity, both conferred and passive reinoculation, remains a concern and must continue to be evaluated in the population of vaccinees. As universal immunization is implemented, the cost-effectiveness of such a program will need to be evaluated. Physicians and parents must be educated about the risks and benefits of vaccination vs natural infection.

Publication Types:
  • Review
  • Review, Tutorial


PMID: 9371046 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Date: 
May 10, 2002