Chickenpox Vaccination: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It primarily affects children under 10 years of age, though it can occur in people of any age who have not been vaccinated or previously infected. 

The disease spreads easily, particularly among unvaccinated individuals. It is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the fluid-filled blisters, respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or even by touching contaminated surfaces. In fact, up to 90% of people who are not immune and are in close contact with someone infected with chickenpox will also contract the virus.

Symptoms of Chickenpox

The first signs of chickenpox typically appear between 10 to 21 days after exposure. The main recognisable symptom of chickenpox is an itchy, fluid-filled rash that often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, including the back, groin, armpits, and under the breasts. The rash forms into red spots, which develop into blisters.

Chickenpox is contagious from the first day before a rash appears until all sores have crusted over—usually seven days after the first noticeable symptoms. 

In addition to the rash, other common symptoms of chickenpox include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Headache

Transmission of Chickenpox

Chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person. The varicella-zoster virus primarily spreads through:

• The chickenpox virus mainly spreads by direct contact with an infected person’s skin or mucous membrane (such as the eyes or nose). 
• If a child touches their own mouth or nose whilst infected, then someone else could get it by simply touching the child’s hand.
• Chickenpox infection may also occur from direct contact with a sore from an infected person.
• Infected individuals may also contaminate solid surfaces like televisions, desks, or beds. Generally, the virus can stay alive for about two hours on surfaces like door handles and doorknobs where there has been direct contact with an infected person’s hand.

Due to its highly contagious nature, chickenpox can spread rapidly, particularly in environments such as schools, daycare centers, and homes where people are in proximity to each other.

Complications of Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a common childhood disease that usually heals without any complications. In rare cases, however, it may lead to serious complications in babies, pregnant mothers, adolescents and adults, and people with a weak immune system.

In more severe cases, patients may experience pneumonia, inflammation of the blood vessels, brain swelling, and infections of the bloodstream, bone, or joints.

Adults infected with chickenpox may experience more severe symptoms and complications compared to children.

The chickenpox virus also causes shingles. The varicella virus stays inactive in the body after a person recovers from chickenpox. The virus can reactivate many years later, causing shingles.

When shingles occurs, the affected individual will experience a painful and itchy rash over one side of the face or body. Pain or tingling sensations can be felt in the area where the rashes appear. 

Treatment Options for Chickenpox in Children

If your child has chickenpox, the treatment mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Common chickenpox treatment options include:

• Itch relief: Your doctor may recommend calamine lotion or antihistamines to help reduce itching.
• Fever control: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is commonly prescribed to help reduce fever. However, aspirin should never be given to children due to the risk of Reye’s Syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain.
• Rest and hydration: Encourage your child to get plenty of bed rest and drink fluids to stay hydrated.

In most cases, healthy children recover well with sufficient rest and fever control. However, in more severe cases, especially if the child is at risk for complications, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs. The decision to use antiviral treatment depends on factors such as:

• The severity of the infection
• The child’s age and overall health
• The timing of treatment (antiviral medications are most effective when given early in the infection)

As always, it's essential to follow the doctor's advice to ensure your child’s recovery and avoid complications.

Chickenpox Vaccination

The chickenpox vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against the varicella-zoster virus and its associated complications. 

The chickenpox vaccine is a live attenuated virus vaccine (a disease-producing virus that is modified, or weakened in a lab to produce an organism that delivers immunity in the body without causing illness).

The chickenpox vaccine is given in two doses.

1. The first dose is given between 12 and 15 months of age, usually as a single injection.
2. The second dose can be given within a minimum of three months interval from the first dose.

An alternative option is the MMRV vaccine, which combines the MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) and chickenpox vaccines in one shot. It’s recommended for children aged one year and older.

How to Treat Chickenpox at Home

If you have chickenpox, stay off school, work, or nursery until all spots have scabbed over (usually about 5 days after they appear). Here’s how you can treat chickenpox yourself:

Do:

• Drink plenty of fluids (ice lollies can help if your child refuses to drink).
• Take paracetamol for pain and discomfort.
• Cut your child's fingernails and put socks on their hands at night to prevent scratching.
• Use cooling creams or gels available at pharmacies.
• Speak to a pharmacist about antihistamines for itching.
• Bathe in cool water and pat the skin dry (avoid rubbing).
• Dress in loose clothing to prevent irritation.

Don’t:

• Avoid ibuprofen, unless prescribed by a doctor, as it may cause serious skin infections.
• Never give aspirin to children under 16 due to the risk of Reye's Syndrome.
• Don’t scratch the spots, as it may cause scarring.

Important:
Keep away from newborn babies, pregnant individuals, or those with weakened immune systems, as chickenpox can be dangerous for them.

Effectiveness and Common Side Effects of the Chickenpox Vaccine

Studies have reported that the effectiveness of a two-dose varicella vaccine ranges between 84% to 98%. According to the CDC, people vaccinated against chickenpox maintain antibodies for at least 10 to 20 years after childhood vaccination.

The vaccine is highly effective in preventing chickenpox, particularly for those who have never had the disease or been vaccinated. It also helps to reduce the severity of symptoms and associated complications. If a vaccinated person does contract the virus, the vaccine helps reduce the severity of symptoms and complications, and also lowers the risk of serious outcomes. It can also help to reduce the spread of the virus to those who are not vaccinated. Additionally, it helps to prevent the spread of the virus to others, especially those who are not vaccinated.

Why Chickenpox Vaccination is Important

It is important for children to receive the chickenpox vaccine to protect themselves and others from this highly contagious virus. Overall, getting the varicella vaccine is much safer than contracting chickenpox, which can lead to serious health problems.

Rare Infections After Vaccination

Although it is extremely rare, some individuals may get infected even after being vaccinated. However, the illness will be milder than if they had not been vaccinated, and recovery will typically be faster.

Common Side Effects

The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective, but like any vaccine, it may cause mild side effects, including:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Fever
• Headache
• Mild rash that may last 1 to 2 days after the shot

Important Considerations

• Inform your doctor if your child had an allergic reaction after a previous dose of chickenpox vaccine, or any underlying severe allergies, or if he/she has a weakened immune system.
• It is also important to mention if your child has a history of hereditary or congenital immune system problems.

The chickenpox vaccine remains a safe and highly effective way to protect against chickenpox and its potential complications.

Make an Appointment for Chickenpox Vaccination at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you want to know more about chickenpox vaccination, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Paediatric Care Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Chickenpox Start?

Chickenpox begins with fever, tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite. Within 1 to 2 days, an itchy red rash appears and turns into fluid-filled blisters.

How Many Days Does Chickenpox Last?

Chickenpox lasts 7 to 10 days. Blisters appear in the first 4 days, then scab and heal within 1 to 2 weeks.

What Are the Main Symptoms of Chickenpox?

The common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness
• Itchy rash that becomes blisters

Is Chickenpox Contagious to Adults?

Yes. Adults who never had chickenpox or the vaccine can catch it. Symptoms are often more severe in adults.

How Long Does It Take for Chickenpox to Go Away?

Chickenpox clears in 1 to 2 weeks. Recovery happens when blisters scab over and fall off.

What Is the Fastest Way to Treat Chickenpox?

• Rest and drink fluids
• Use calamine lotion or oatmeal baths
• Take paracetamol for fever (never aspirin)
• Ask your doctor about antivirals if severe

Can You Take a Bath During Chickenpox?

Yes. Use lukewarm water and mild soap. Pat your skin dry to avoid infection.