Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine Information
What does the new law require?
• At least one dose of chickenpox vaccine is required for children:
- 18 months of age and older who are enrolled or attempting to enroll in a licensed childcare center (by definition this includes pre-kindergarten or preschool).
- Children born on or after September 15, 1997, who are enrolled or attempting to enroll in a public or nonpublic elementary or secondary school.
• This dose of vaccine should be received on or after 12 months of age.
OR HAVE
• A history of natural disease as stated by the parent or guardian.
• Parents do not need written documentation from their physician.
• These changes went into effect July 1, 2003, which means chickenpox vaccination will be required for the 2003-2004 school year.
• Childcare centers and schools are expected to comply with the new requirement as soon as possible.
Complete compliance is expected by January 1, 2004.
Why did we apply for a change in the Iowa Code?
• To protect children from the possible severe effects of chickenpox disease.
• In May 1999, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that all states require chickenpox vaccinations for school-age children.
• Since 1995, 38 states have enacted mandates requiring chickenpox immunization for entry into daycare and elementary school.
Is the vaccine new?
• In March 1995, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first chickenpox vaccine. The following year, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) added chickenpox to the list of recommended childhood vaccinations.
How effective is the vaccine?
• The vaccine is estimated to be 80-90% effective against all chickenpox disease (even a slight case), and 95% effective against severe chickenpox.
• Routine vaccination consists of one dose given at 12-18 months of age, up to the age of 13. For children 13 years of age and over, two doses are required, at least one month apart.
Can the chickenpox vaccine be given with the other shots?
• Yes
Are there any side effects to the vaccine?
• The most common side effect following chickenpox vaccination is local reaction such as pain, soreness, redness and swelling at the site of the shot. These local reactions are generally mild.
• A generalized chickenpox-like rash is reported by 4-6% of people who have had the vaccine. Most of these rashes occur within three weeks after the vaccination. These little blisters usually go away without treatment in a couple of days.
• Overall body-type reactions are not common.
How long will the vaccine protect my child?
• There is no evidence that immunity is less over time.
• The vaccine has been used in Japan for 25 years and the immunized children still have a high degree of protection.
I’ve heard some kids still get chickenpox after receiving the vaccine, is that true?
• While the effectiveness of the vaccine is excellent, breakthrough cases can occur.
• Approximately 4% of children per year develop breakthrough disease (i.e., developed chickenpox disease even though they had the vaccine). Breakthrough disease is much milder, with fewer blisters, and low-grade or no fever.
How serious is chickenpox disease?
• The risk of complications from chickenpox varies with age. Complications occur more frequently in adults, but there is no way to predict who will have a mild or severe case.
• Before the vaccine, approximately 11,000 people with chickenpox-required hospitalization each year.
• From 1990 through 1996, an average of 103 deaths from chickenpox were reported each year.
What if I’m not sure if my child had chickenpox disease? Will the vaccine hurt my child if I let them get the shot and they have already had the disease?
• If a child receives the vaccination and has already had chickenpox disease the vaccine will not hurt them, the antibody level will just be higher.
What should I do if my child was exposed to chickenpox disease?
• If your child hasn’t had chickenpox disease and is exposed to someone with chickenpox, the vaccine is recommended.
Are there some people who should not be vaccinated?
• Yes. If you have questions, contact your health care provider or the immunization hotline at the Iowa Department of Public Health, 1-800-831-6293.
What if my child cannot receive the vaccine?
• Iowa Administrative Code allows exclusion to immunization on an individual basis for medical and religious reasons.
• Applicants approved for medical or religious exemptions shall submit to the admitting official of the daycare/or school a valid Iowa Department of Public Health Certificate of Immunization Exemption. Allowable signatures for medical exemption include physician (MD or DO), Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants licensed in Iowa.
I still have questions about the vaccine, disease, law change, who can I contact for more information?
• The Iowa Department of Public Health Immunization Program has a phone line available for questions, call 1-800-831-6293.
Information courtesy of the Dubuque City Health Department and the Iowa Department of Public Health.
