The vaccine Varivax
® (
varicella vaccine) is used for preventing
chickenpox. It is a live attenuated vaccine that contains the living virus. The virus has been altered in such a way that it does not actually cause disease. However, the body's immune system still responds to it, providing future protection from the disease.
Varivax is given as two separate doses, at least one to three months apart (depending on the age of the individual). The vaccine is given subcutaneously (just under the skin) on the upper arm. It can be given to children older than 12 months, adolescents, and adults. Individuals who have already had chickenpox do not need to get Varivax.
If you still have questions about the Varivax vaccine after reading this article (or our other articles on this topic), talk to your child's healthcare provider for more information. He or she knows your child's situation best.
(Click Varivax for more information on when to get this vaccine, to learn about the potential side effects of Varivax, and to find out what else you should be aware of before getting vaccinated.)
