Varicella vaccination timing: when should a child receive the vaccine?

Varicella vaccination timing: when should a child receive the vaccine?

• A. 0-6 months
• B. 12-18 months
• C. 4-6 years
• D. 11-12 years

Answer: (B)

Varicella vaccination is started after a child turns 12 months old to ensure an adequate immune response. The first dose is given around 12–15 months, with a typical window extending to about 18 months in many vaccination schedules. Giving it earlier than 12 months isn’t effective because maternal antibodies can interfere with the vaccine, preventing proper immunity from developing. A second dose is then given later to boost and prolong protection, commonly at 4–6 years. The other time points—0–6 months are too young for the initial dose, and 11–12 years is generally used for catch-up if the child hasn’t been vaccinated earlier or completed the series.

Varicella vaccination is started after a child turns 12 months old to ensure an adequate immune response. The first dose is given around 12–15 months, with a typical window extending to about 18 months in many vaccination schedules. Giving it earlier than 12 months isn’t effective because maternal antibodies can interfere with the vaccine, preventing proper immunity from developing.

A second dose is then given later to boost and prolong protection, commonly at 4–6 years. The other time points—0–6 months are too young for the initial dose, and 11–12 years is generally used for catch-up if the child hasn’t been vaccinated earlier or completed the series.