Chickenpox: Key Questions for Parents of Infants

Questioning individuals

Hello, my son is just over 8 months old.
He got chickenpox because someone at home had it, and he has developed spots all over his body.
I took him to see a doctor, and I would like to ask if a person who has had chickenpox will not get it again in the future.
Should I wait until my child is 1 year old to get the chickenpox vaccine? Also, is it true that people who have been vaccinated against chickenpox are less likely to get infected? Is the contagious period for chickenpox the first 4 to 5 days?

Ms. He, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/08

Dr. Lin Huizhen reply Pediatrics

Dear Ms.
He,
This is Dr.
Lin Huizhen from the Pediatrics Department of Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
1.
The contagious period for chickenpox generally starts 2-3 days before the appearance of the rash and lasts until the lesions have crusted over.
Once the lesions are dry, the individual is no longer contagious.
2.
The effectiveness of the chickenpox vaccine is typically between 70-90%.
After vaccination, 10-30% of children may still develop chickenpox; however, those who have been vaccinated are less likely to be infected.
If they do contract the virus, the rash is usually much milder compared to unvaccinated individuals, and they are less likely to experience fever and other complications.
3.
Having had chickenpox usually provides lifelong immunity.
4.
The chickenpox vaccine is recommended for children over 12 months of age for optimal protection, as younger children may not mount a strong antibody response.
The Pediatrics Department of Tainan Hospital cares about your health!

Reply Date: 2005/12/08

More Info

Hello! It's understandable to have concerns about chickenpox, especially when it comes to your infant. Let's break down your questions regarding chickenpox and its implications for your child.

Firstly, chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It typically presents with an itchy rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters, which eventually crust over. Once a person has had chickenpox, they usually develop immunity to the virus, which means they are unlikely to get it again. However, the virus can remain dormant in the body and may reactivate later in life as shingles (herpes zoster), particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Regarding your question about vaccination, the varicella vaccine is recommended for children, typically given in two doses: the first between 12-15 months of age and the second between 4-6 years. If your child has already contracted chickenpox, they may not need the vaccine, as they would have developed natural immunity. However, if you have any doubts or if your child has not had a confirmed case of chickenpox, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.

As for the contagious period, chickenpox is indeed contagious from about 1-2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, which usually takes about 5-7 days. This means that if your child has been exposed to someone with chickenpox, they could potentially spread the virus before showing any symptoms themselves.

If your child has already developed chickenpox, it’s important to monitor their symptoms. Most cases in infants are mild, but complications can occur, especially in very young children. These complications can include bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Ensure your child is comfortable, keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratching, and consult your pediatrician if you notice any concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, high fever, or signs of infection.

In terms of prevention, if your child has not yet contracted chickenpox, vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease. Vaccinated children who do contract chickenpox typically experience a milder form of the illness, with fewer lesions and less severe symptoms.

In summary, once a child has had chickenpox, they generally do not get it again, but they may still be at risk for shingles later in life. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, and if your child has already contracted the virus, focus on supportive care and monitoring for any complications. Always consult your healthcare provider for the best course of action tailored to your child's health needs.

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