The reason varicella is called chickenpox has nothing to do with chickens. Chickenpox got its nickname because the blisters look like chick peas.

The Disease

Varicella, or chickenpox, is one of the most common childhood diseases. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most people in the United States get chickenpox while they are still children. Until the late 1990's there were about 4 million cases a year. But now that people are using varicella vaccine, that number has begun to drop.

(more about the symptoms and way its spread)

The Immunization

Varicella vaccine is a live-virus vaccine. It has been used in some parts of the world, such as Japan, for over 20 years. It was licensed in the United States in 1995.

(more about the immunization and side effects)

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP: Prevention of Varicella: Recommendations for Use of Varicella Vaccines in Children, Including a Recommendation for a Routine Two-Dose Varicella Immunization Schedule
• CDC: Prevention of Varicella (Exit Site)

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know

• Why get vaccinated?
• Who should get varicella vaccine and when?
• Some people should not get varicella vaccine or should wait
• What are the risks from varicella vaccine?
• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?

Other Resources

• CDC Varicella Page (Exit Site)
• Immunization Action Coalition Varicella Page (Exit Site)
• National Network for Immunization Information Varicella Page (Exit Site)