Chickenpox: Presentation, transmission, complications and prevention

Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox is an acute and highly infectious disease, which is caused by the varicella zoster virus Varicella. The two chickenpox vaccines available in the UK are Varilrix and Varivax but are not included in the routine childhood vaccination scheme unless they are immunocompromised (Gov.uk, 2018; PHE, 2019). The varicella vaccination has been associated with a dramatic reduction in chickenpox cases in countries such as the United States, where every child can be vaccinated (Seward et al, 2002). Johnston et al (1997); however, suggest that approximately 2–3% of patients vaccinated per year can develop a mild form of chickenpox regardless of the vaccine given. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (2010) has not recommended it as part of the national immunisation programme but nearly a decade later perhaps it is time to revisit this topic.