CHICKENPOX VACCINATION
Why in the News ?
Recent U.S. data spanning 25 years highlights the significant decline in chickenpox and shingles cases among children, challenging prior fears of adverse consequences.
Source: Medical News Today
| Chickenpox· Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).· It primarily affects children, but people of all ages can contract the virus.· The characteristic symptom of chickenpox is a red, itchy rash that starts on the face and torso and then spreads throughout the body.Shingles· Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox.· After a person has had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues. Later in life, it can reactivate, leading to the development of shingles. |
Impact on Children and Adults
- Chickenpox, typically mild in children, can lead to severe complications and even death.
- In adults, the dormant virus can cause shingles, a concern initially linked to widespread chickenpox vaccination.
U.S. Data Insights:
- A comprehensive 25-year study (1995-2019) demonstrated a sharp reduction in chickenpox and shingles cases in children.
- For adults, shingles cases did not surge, aligning with earlier findings.
Effectiveness and U.S. Impact:
- Since its U.S. introduction, the vaccine has prevented over 91 million chickenpox cases, nearly 2,38,000 hospitalisations, and almost 2,000 deaths, underscoring its efficacy.
Indian Perspective:
- Varicella vaccination is available in India, but it is often administered as part of optional or private vaccination
- India is yet to include the varicella vaccine in the universal immunisation programme.
- Data limitations hinder a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and understanding the disease burden.
Public Health Priorities in India:
- Experts stress the importance of expanding vaccination programmes in India, focusing on diseases like diphtheria and pertussis.
- Published studies indicate a lower risk of shingles, emphasizing local context awareness.
Expert opinions affirm the clear benefits of the chickenpox vaccine, challenging any lingering ideologies suggesting infection benefits children at a population level.