Varicella vaccine
Varicella Vaccine
The Varicella Vaccine (pronounced vuh-RIK-uh-luh vak-SEEN) is a vaccine that protects against chickenpox, a disease caused by the Varicella-zoster virus.
Etymology
The term "Varicella" is derived from the Latin word varicellus, which means "smallpox". The term "vaccine" comes from the Latin vaccinus, meaning "of or from the cow", as the first vaccines were derived from cowpox to immunize against smallpox.
Usage
The Varicella Vaccine is typically given in two doses, with the first dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age. It can also be given to older children and adults who have not had chickenpox or received the vaccine before.
Effectiveness
The Varicella Vaccine is about 90% effective at preventing chickenpox. Even if a vaccinated person does get chickenpox, the symptoms are usually milder with fewer blisters and little or no fever.
Related Terms
- Chickenpox: A highly contagious disease characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash. It is caused by the Varicella-zoster virus.
- Varicella-zoster virus: The virus that causes both chickenpox and shingles.
- Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.
- Shingles: A painful rash that develops on one side of the face or body, caused by the Varicella-zoster virus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Varicella vaccine
- Wikipedia's article - Varicella vaccine
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