Published 19 August 2008, doi:10.1136/bmj.a1164
Cite this as: BMJ 2008;337:a1164

Editorials

Childhood immunisation against varicella zoster virus

Universal adoption depends on science, politics, and society's attitude to risk

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

When childcare centres, schools, and colleges in the United States reopen after the summer break, attendees will need to prove that they have been immunised against the varicella zoster virus—which causes varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles)—or to demonstrate naturally acquired immunity.1 In the United Kingdom (and most of Europe), the debate intensifies as to whether we should follow suit and instigate universal childhood immunisation against this virus.

Immunisation has reduced the incidence of varicella in the US since the first vaccine became available in 1995.2 3 4 So why have more countries not adopted universal immunisation?

Firstly, there is a concern that childhood immunisation for varicella zoster virus may shift the burden of disease to adults. Most children get varicella at some time, and in most cases the consequences are not life threatening. Getting varicella as an adult, when pregnant, or when immunologically compromised generally leads to more severe complications. Adults . . . [Full text of this article]

Andrew Farlow, research fellow in economics

1 Oriel College, Oxford, Oxford OX1 4EW

Andrew.Farlow@oriel.ox.ac.uk


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Rapid Responses:

Read all Rapid Responses

Should immunisation programmes take place for economic reasons?
Rowan Mclachlan
bmj.com, 22 Aug 2008 [Full text]
It’s the economy, stupid.
Mark Struthers
bmj.com, 23 Aug 2008 [Full text]
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