Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease that is transmitted through respiratory and saliva droplets (airborne), but also through contact with infected blisters. It causes fever and a rash characterised by blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, and can also have serious complications. In pregnant women, the virus can reach the foetus and cause serious complications, especially during the first weeks of pregnancy.

Chickenpox in newborns is particularly severe and can be fatal or cause mental disability.

In immunocompromised individuals, chickenpox can cause complications (pneumonia, secondary infections), which can also be fatal.

Vaccination protects against severe forms of this disease.

Vaccination schedule

• Vaccination: 13 months
• Booster: 15–23 months

The injectable vaccine is combined with vaccines against measles, rubella and mumps (MMRV). The vaccine is recommended at 13 months of age, and a booster is required between 15 and 23 months.