health

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be
vaccinated against chicken pox before two years of age. Older children
and teens who have not had chicken pox are usually vaccinated as part
of routine health care. Women who have not had chicken pox or been
previously vaccinated should be vaccinated before they become pregnant.
Pregnant women cannot be vaccinated because the vaccine contains live
virus that could harm the fetus*. However, vaccinations* for family members
and others in close contact with a pregnant woman can help protect
her from infection. People who become infected with varicella despite
vaccination usually have a milder case of chicken pox.
A single dose of varicella zoster immune globulin* (VZIG) can be
administered intravenously* to protect a person with a weakened immune
system who comes into contact with the virus. VZIG contains antibodies
against VZV and, if it is given within three to four days of exposure, offers
temporary protection. Exposure to varicella by a non-immune pregnant
woman can also be treated with VZIG to reduce the risk of transmitting
the virus to her fetus.
People with shingles should avoid contact with anyone who has not
had chicken pox or been vaccinated, particularly pregnant women, newborns,
and those with weakened immune systems.
A single-dose vaccine against shingles became available in 2006 and
was recommended for most people 60 years of age and older. It appeared
to prevent shingles in about 50 percent of vaccinated people and reduces
the pain associated with shingles in others. It was believed to help prevent
post-herpetic neuralgia. People should not receive the shingles vaccine if
any of the following conditions apply to them:

• Have a weakened immune system
  
• Have active, untreated tuberculosis*
  
• Are pregnant or could become pregnant within three months of
  being vaccinated
  
• Have a moderate or severe illness or fever