Does your child need the varicella vaccine? - Film Daily

Varicella vaccine remains on U.S. childhood schedules, but parents still question whether it’s necessary. A report argues the case is driven by long-documented reductions in severe illness, clear dosing guidance, and nearly three decades of safety data. Before routine vaccination, nearly all American children contracted varicella-zoster, with annual cases reaching about four million, roughly 11,000 pediatric hospitalizations, and around 100 deaths each year. After vaccination started in 1995, childhood hospitalizations fell 97% and deaths in people under 20 dropped more than 90%. Protection is reported as 92% after the first dose at 12–15 months and 98% after the second dose at 4–6 years. The CDC recommends two doses for children 12 months and older, with catch-up for those who missed doses, while certain severe allergic reactions and specific immunocompromising treatments are contraindications.