Varicella (chiceknpox) vaccine
Varicella (chickenpox) virus infects skin, nerve endings, and lung. Illness includes an itchy, blistering, crusting rash. Infection occurs from respiratory droplets or direct contact with fluid from blisters. Healthy individuals and non-pregnant women born before 1980 in the U.S. are assumed to be immune. Persons born after 1980 and anyone else who is not immune should have received (at some time) a total of 2 doses of live virus vaccine, with the doses given at least 28 days apart. Rare vaccine side effects include anaphylaxis, platelet deficiency, and certain neurological conditions. Small blistering lesions may occur.