Details

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Live attenuated Varicella-zoster Vaccine is used to treat chickenpox which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is known with the brand name Varilrix all over the world. The vaccine acts as an immunizing agent that prevents the occurrence of chickenpox.

 

How does it work?

Varilrix vaccine is made from the live Varicella- Zoster virus which is inactivated or weakened to fight against its infection. When the vaccine is administered into the body as an antigen it acts by stimulating the body to produce antibodies that develop immunity to protect against the virus.

 

Dosage:

• The dose of the Live attenuated Varicella-zoster Vaccine depends upon the age of the children. Hence, it is taken according to the doctor’s advice.
• A qualified doctor will inject the vaccine subcutaneously under the deltoid region of your skin.
• The recommended dose of the drug is 0.5ml of reconstituted vaccine given in two doses with a time interval of 3 months.
• The second dose should not be administered before 4 weeks.
• It should not be administered through an intravenous route and any contaminated injection should not be used.

 

Side effects:

• The common side effects of this Live attenuated Varicella-zoster Vaccine include dizziness, fatigue, headache, irritation, cough, and runny nose. These symptoms disappear after a certain period.
• Fever ( about 102 degrees), muscle spasms, bleeding and allergic reactions such as itching, rashes on the skin may be observed.
• Peeling of the skin, seizures, troublesome breathing, hives, tiredness are rare conditions. Seek immediate medical help if you observe any of these side effects.

 

Contraindications:

• Have a word with your doctor if you have any allergic reaction with the

Live attenuated Varicella-zoster Vaccine. So that he can alter the drug.

• Let your doctor know if you are allergic to neomycin.
• If you have been previously diagnosed with T.B. or undergoing tuberculosis treatment then you should avoid taking this vaccine.
• This vaccine is contraindicated in patients who have weak immune systems or undertake immunosuppressive therapy.
• This vaccine is strictly contraindicated in patients who are pregnant.
• The use of this vaccine is avoided in lactating mothers even though it is not found that the vaccine passes into breast milk.
• Varilrix vaccine is prohibited to use in infants who are under 12 months.

 

Precautions:

• The patient needs to be thoroughly monitored by the physician to avoid any kind of harmful effects.

Any disinfectant used should be evaporated from the skin before injecting as it may contaminate the Varilrix vaccine.