The highest priority for vaccination is adolescents, but newborns are also vaccinated because some cases are suspected to occur in day care. The vaccine is now required for school entry and prior to entering seventh grade, and is given in three doses over 6-18 months. It does not cause significant side effects. Since this vaccination was introduced in 1985, both diseases have virtually disappeared, saving thousands of lives yearly. The vaccine is usually given in combination with Hepatitis B vaccine during infancy.
Side effects are insignificant.
Although this vaccine is fairly new in the U.S., it has been available in Japan and elsewhere for over 20 years. Chickenpox is rarely serious, but can be, especially in young adults. This vaccine becomes mandatory for school attendance in 2001. It is rarely serious, especially in children, but tends to occur in epidemics, Older patients often become jaundiced. Southern California is considered a high-risk area and the schools may soon require this vaccine.