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Chicken pox vaccine recommended |
Although chicken pox is most common during the summer months, local GPs have already treated several patients who have the disease.
A vaccine that protects children against chicken pox is now available and the Northern Rivers Division of General Practice suggests parents consider the vaccine for their children.
“Usually chicken pox is a mild illness, but complications can include brain inflammation and serious pneumonias,” Dr Sue Page, manager of the division’s immunisation project, said.
“Adults tend to feel much sicker than children, and people who have poor immune systems are at particular risk. The spots are itchy, and young children often scratch so much they get scars. Even without scratching, spots on the face can leave the familiar pockmark scars.”
Chicken pox is recognisable by the itchy rash of small red spots that first appear on the face and trunk and then spread to the rest of the body. The spots become blisters, which then crust over. The virus is spread by coughing or sneezing or contact with fluid from a chicken pox sore. It is infectious for about two days before the rash appears and until the final blister crusts over, about six days later. The sick person will also have a fever lasting from three to five days. The incubation period is between 14 - 15 days.
“Others who might consider having the vaccine are those older than 12 years who have not had chickenpox. Three quarters of 12 year olds have immunity but the remaining quarter need to consider the consequences of contracting chicken pox during their teenage years, particularly when their immune systems may be under stress, such as at exam time. For others their job or the people they are in contact with regularly might put them or their dependants at higher risk: people such as healthcare workers, teachers, child care workers, the parents of young children, women and their partner before pregnancy, and household contacts of people with poor immune systems.”
Children aged between nine months and 12 years receive one dose of the vaccine. Adolescents and adults need two doses.
The vaccine is not on the childhood immunisation schedule, although this may change in the future, according to Dr Page. It is available by prescription from GPs and costs about $60 from the chemist. Chemists will supply foil bags for the vaccine as it must be kept within a certain temperature range. They will also supply eskies if required.
“It is best to pick up vaccines immediately before visiting the GP. Some pharmacies regularly deliver to local surgeries so ask your chemist if they can deliver it for you,” Dr Page advises.
~ENDS
Media Contact: Katherine Breen Kurucsev, NRDGP, 6622 4453
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