Should I Still Worry About Chickenpox?

Many Atlanta parents wonder whether chickenpox is still a concern in today’s world of widespread vaccination. While the varicella vaccine has dramatically reduced cases since its introduction in 1995 (by 97% according to the CDC), chickenpox hasn’t disappeared entirely. Understanding this highly contagious disease and knowing how to protect your children remains important for every parent.

What Is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a highly contagious illness characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash covering the body. Before vaccination became routine, nearly all children contracted chicken pox, resulting in approximately four million cases annually in the United States. The disease typically causes fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and the hallmark itchy rash that progresses from red spots to fluid-filled blisters before crusting over.

While often considered a mild childhood illness, chicken pox can lead to serious complications, including bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, brain inflammation and even death. Infants, adolescents, adults, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals face higher risks for severe complications.

The Current State of Chicken Pox

Thanks to widespread vaccination, chickenpox cases have declined by more than 90 percent in the United States. However, the disease hasn’t been eradicated. Outbreaks still occur, particularly in communities with lower vaccination rates or among unvaccinated individuals. The virus remains extremely contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets and direct contact with rash blisters. An infected person can transmit the virus from one to two days before the rash appears until all blisters have crusted over.

Breakthrough cases—chickenpox infections in vaccinated individuals—do occur but are typically much milder, with fewer lesions, lower fevers and faster recovery. These cases demonstrate that, while the vaccine is highly effective, no vaccine provides 100% protection.

How to Help Your Children Avoid Infection

1. Ensure Complete Vaccination: The CDC recommends two doses of the varicella vaccine: the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. Two doses provide approximately 90 percent protection against all cases of chickenpox and nearly 100 percent protection against severe disease. Verify your child’s vaccination status and schedule any missing doses promptly.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Teach children proper handwashing techniques, especially after being in public spaces. Avoid sharing personal items like cups, utensils or towels with others, particularly during outbreaks.
3. Limit Exposure to Infected Individuals: Keep children away from anyone with active chickenpox or shingles (which can transmit the varicella virus to unvaccinated individuals). If exposure occurs, contact your pediatrician immediately—post-exposure vaccination or immune globulin may prevent or reduce disease severity.
4. Maintain Overall Health: A strong immune system is better equipped to fight infections. Ensure your children get adequate sleep, nutritious meals, regular physical activity and routine preventive care.

When to See a Doctor

Contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, P.C. immediately if your child:

• Develops a rash with fever, especially if unvaccinated or immunocompromised
• Has been exposed to chicken pox and is unvaccinated, under 12 months, or has weakened immunity
• Shows signs of complications: difficulty breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, extreme drowsiness, confusion, rapid heartbeat or rash spreading to the eyes
• Develops infected-looking blisters (increased redness, warmth, pus or spreading redness)
• Has fever lasting more than four days or exceeding 102°F
• Cannot keep fluids down due to mouth sores

Early medical intervention can prevent complications and provide symptom relief, particularly for high-risk children.

Chicken Pox FAQs

Q: Can my vaccinated child still get chickenpox?
A: Yes, but breakthrough cases are typically mild with fewer than 50 lesions, minimal fever and quick recovery. Vaccination significantly reduces the severity of infection, even when it occurs.

Q: Is chickenpox dangerous for pregnant women?
A: Yes. Chickenpox during pregnancy can cause serious complications for both mother and baby, including birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid exposure and consult their obstetrician immediately if exposed.

Q: How long is chickenpox contagious?
A: Infected individuals are contagious from one to two days before the rash appears until all blisters have completely crusted over, typically five to seven days after rash onset.

Q: Can my child get chickenpox from someone with shingles?
A: Yes. Unvaccinated children can contract chickenpox from direct contact with shingles blisters, though shingles is less contagious than active chickenpox.

Q: Should my child avoid school if exposed to chickenpox?
A: If vaccinated, children can typically attend school unless they develop symptoms. Unvaccinated children should consult their pediatrician, as exclusion may be recommended during the incubation period.

Protect Your Child Today

At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, P.C., our experienced Atlanta team provides comprehensive preventive care, including varicella vaccination and expert guidance on protecting your children from infectious diseases. Whether you need to verify vaccination status, discuss chicken pox exposure or address concerning symptoms, we’re here to help.

Don’t leave your child’s health to chance—contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, P.C. today to schedule an appointment or discuss your concerns. Let us partner with you in keeping your children healthy and protected.