Chickenpox viruses are transmitted extremely easily - almost every contact with sick people leads to infection. The chickenpox virus (varicella zoster) is usually transmitted through coughing, sneezing and also possible from the blisters of the skin rash.

Overall, the disease is more severe in adolescents and adults than in children. After the chickenpox has healed, the viruses can still remain in certain areas of the nerve endings. A painful skin rash and inflammation in the area of the affected nerve can develop, especially in children with a weakened immune system. It then develops a so-called shingles (herpes zoster).

• Ususally, young people received basic immunization as babies. 

• If this has not yet taken place, the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommends the basic immunization for young people. 

• This is made up in two doses if the young person has not had chickenpox up to that point.

The vaccine is well tolerated and side effects are rare. With the usual side effects, a distinction is made between local reactions and general symptoms. Local reactions are redness and swelling at the injection site, which will subside after a few days. In addition, general symptoms such as fever or tiredness can occur - these side effects also subside quickly. According to the STIKO (Standing Vaccination Committee), serious illnesses can occur, but they are very rare.

If you have any concerns about your child's reaction to the vaccine, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor.

Resources:

https://www.rki.de/EN/Content/infections/Vaccination/recommandations/04_23_englisch.pdf?__blob=publicationFile

https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/windpocken-varizellen/