Generic medicine

Varicella Virus Vaccine: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Established / Approved Use Varicella Virus Vaccine is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of varicella (chickenpox) in healthy individuals 12 months of age and older who have no…

Forms:SC Injection

About Varicella Virus Vaccine

Indications of Varicella Virus Vaccine

Established / Approved Use

Varicella Virus Vaccine is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of varicella (chickenpox) in healthy individuals 12 months of age and older who have no history of the disease and no evidence of immunity.

Guideline-Supported Uses

  • Routine childhood immunization: a two-dose series given as part of the standard national/international immunization schedule.
  • Catch-up vaccination: susceptible adolescents and adults who have not previously received Varicella Virus Vaccine or had confirmed varicella.
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis: when given within 3-5 days of exposure to a case of varicella, Varicella Virus Vaccine can prevent or significantly modify (reduce severity of) the disease in susceptible contacts, per current public health guidance.
  • Occupational and household-contact vaccination: susceptible healthcare workers, teachers, childcare staff, and household contacts of immunocompromised persons, to reduce transmission risk.

Varicella Virus Vaccine is not intended for treatment of active varicella or herpes zoster infection.

Dosage & Administration of Varicella Virus Vaccine

Standard Dosing of Varicella Virus Vaccine

PopulationDose / Schedule
Children 12 months - 12 yearsTwo 0.5 mL doses of Varicella Virus Vaccine: first dose at 12-15 months of age, second dose at 4-6 years (may be given earlier if at least 3 months after the first dose, per local schedule).
Adolescents ≥13 years and adults (susceptible, no immunity)Two 0.5 mL doses of Varicella Virus Vaccine given 4-8 weeks apart.
Post-exposure prophylaxisA single 0.5 mL dose of Varicella Virus Vaccine, ideally within 3-5 days of exposure, following the standard age-appropriate schedule for any subsequent dose(s).

Varicella Virus Vaccine is administered only by subcutaneous injection; see Administration and Reconstitution for preparation and injection technique.

Side Effects of Varicella Virus Vaccine

Most reactions to Varicella Virus Vaccine are mild and self-limited.

  • Very common/common: injection-site pain, redness, or swelling; low-grade fever; mild irritability (in young children).
  • Common: a mild, localized or generalized varicella-like rash appearing 5-26 days after vaccination.
  • Uncommon: headache, malaise, upper respiratory symptoms.
  • Rare: more extensive rash, secondary bacterial skin infection, mild transient thrombocytopenia (temporal association reported).
  • Very rare/serious: anaphylaxis, encephalitis, pneumonia, and other severe allergic or neurologic reactions have been reported very rarely following Varicella Virus Vaccine; seek urgent medical attention if these occur.

Contraindications of Varicella Virus Vaccine

  • History of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of Varicella Virus Vaccine or to any of its components, including gelatin or neomycin.
  • Pregnancy - Varicella Virus Vaccine must not be given to pregnant women (see Pregnancy and Lactation).
  • Known severe immunodeficiency, including primary immunodeficiency, active untreated leukemia or lymphoma, HIV/AIDS with significant immunosuppression, or immunosuppressive treatment (e.g., high-dose systemic corticosteroids, chemotherapy), unless specific specialist clearance protocols apply.
  • Active, untreated tuberculosis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Varicella Virus Vaccine

What is Varicella Virus Vaccine used for?

Varicella Virus Vaccine is used to actively immunize people 12 months of age and older against varicella (chickenpox), and can also reduce the severity of disease if given shortly after exposure.

How many doses of Varicella Virus Vaccine are needed?

Most people need two doses of Varicella Virus Vaccine for optimal, long-lasting protection - the exact interval depends on age; a single dose gives only partial protection.

Can Varicella Virus Vaccine be given during pregnancy?

No. Varicella Virus Vaccine is contraindicated in pregnancy because it is a live vaccine with a theoretical risk to the fetus; women should avoid pregnancy for at least one month after each dose and should discuss timing with their physician.

Is it safe to take aspirin after receiving Varicella Virus Vaccine?

Aspirin and other salicylate-containing medicines should be avoided for 6 weeks after Varicella Virus Vaccine because of a theoretical link between salicylates, varicella, and Reye's syndrome.

What are the common side effects of Varicella Virus Vaccine?

The most common effects are injection-site pain, redness or swelling, mild fever, and occasionally a mild rash appearing 5-26 days after vaccination. Serious reactions such as anaphylaxis are rare.

Who should not receive Varicella Virus Vaccine?

People with a severe allergy to a previous dose or to a vaccine component (such as gelatin or neomycin), pregnant women, people with active untreated tuberculosis, and people with severe immunodeficiency should not receive Varicella Virus Vaccine; consult a physician to confirm eligibility.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles