Since 1995, a chickenpox vaccine has been available for children 12 months of age and older. Adolescents and adults who have never had chickenpox can also get the vaccine. The vaccine has proven very effective in preventing severe chickenpox. The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend that all children be vaccinated with the chickenpox vaccine between 12 and 18 months of age. A catch-up or booster vaccination is recommended again between 11 and 12 years of age.
Many schools now require vaccination prior to entry into preschool or public schools.
Chickenpox is a highly infectious disease, usually associated with childhood. By adulthood, more than 95 percent of Americans have had chickenpox. About 4 million people get chickenpox every year. Symptoms are usually mild among children, but may be life-threatening to infants, adults, and people with impaired immune systems. The following are the most common symptoms of chickenpox.