Do children born in the 1990s have access to the varicella vaccine?

Children born in the 1990s typically received imported varicella (chickenpox) vaccines; domestically produced varicella vaccines became available only in 2000. Vaccination effectively prevents chickenpox.

The varicella vaccine is widely used and comes in two doses. The first dose is administered at one month of age. If a child has not had chickenpox by age four, a second dose is recommended upon reaching their fourth birthday. This two-dose schedule significantly reduces the risk of contracting chickenpox, although it does not guarantee complete immunity—vaccinated individuals may still develop chickenpox, albeit usually in a milder form. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is generally self-limiting. During active infection, the disease is highly contagious; contagion typically ceases once lesions have fully crusted over.

During illness, ensure adequate indoor ventilation and strict isolation. Frequent handwashing helps minimize viral transmission. Avoid scratching or breaking the blisters, as this increases the risk of secondary bacterial infection.