JVR_2024v14n1

Journal of Vaccine Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 1-9 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/jvr 2 immunity, meaning that by vaccinating a large portion of the population, most people gain immunity, reducing the speed and scope of virus transmission. This, in turn, protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as individuals with compromised immune systems and infants who are too young to receive the vaccine. Additionally, the widespread vaccination of the chickenpox vaccine can alleviate the burden on the healthcare system, lowering hospitalization rates and medical costs associated with chickenpox. The introduction and improvement of the chickenpox vaccine play a crucial role in addressing the issue of chickenpox. Through widespread vaccine administration, it is possible to reduce the incidence of chickenpox and the risk of complications, protecting individuals from the harm caused by chickenpox and achieving herd immunity, thereby reducing the spread and speed of virus transmission. Therefore, further research and improvement of the chickenpox vaccine are important tasks in current medical science to address the chickenpox problem and enhance public health. This review, by briefly introducing the improvement of the chickenpox vaccine and the development of new vaccines, aims to better address the vaccination needs of diverse populations and enhance vaccination strategies and promotion efforts. It can also provide more choices and enhance comprehensive prevention and control capabilities in chickenpox prevention and control, meeting the diverse needs of various populations, which is of significant importance in enhancing comprehensive prevention and control capabilities. 1 Current Status of Chickenpox Vaccination 1.1 Immunogenicity and vaccination strategies for Chickenpox vaccines Existing chickenpox vaccines have demonstrated good immunogenicity in preventing chickenpox infection through clinical trials and widespread application. Chickenpox vaccines work by activating the body's immune system, inducing the production of specific antibodies to combat the varicella-zoster virus. These antibodies can swiftly recognize and neutralize the virus, preventing further virus replication and the infection of other cells. Individuals who receive the chickenpox vaccine can obtain long-term immune protection. Research data indicates that after vaccination with the chickenpox vaccine, over 95% of individuals can achieve immunity when exposed to the varicella-zoster virus. This means that even when vaccinated individuals have close contact with chickenpox patients, the likelihood of chickenpox infection is low. Even if a few vaccinated individuals contract chickenpox, the course of the disease is much milder, and symptoms are more relieved (Gershon et al., 2021; Liu , 2023). The immunogenicity of the chickenpox vaccine also contributes to the prevention of severe complications related to chickenpox. Chickenpox infection can lead to complications such as skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, and herpes zoster. Vaccination with the chickenpox vaccine can mitigate the risk of infection and decrease the incidence of complications. Research indicates that after chickenpox vaccination, hospitalization rates and medical expenses related to chickenpox are significantly reduced, providing significant benefits to individuals and society. For the vaccination strategy of the chickenpox vaccine, it typically involves a two-dose regimen. The first vaccine dose is usually administered at 12 to 15 months of age, while the second dose is given at 4 to 6 years old. This vaccination strategy can provide better immunogenicity and enhance individual immune protection. Administering the second dose of the vaccine can further reinforce and prolong the immune effect, ensuring long-lasting immunity for individuals. For children and adults who have not received the chickenpox vaccine, vaccination is still an option to obtain immunity. The optimal time for chickenpox vaccination is before an individual becomes infected with the varicella-zoster virus to fully utilize the vaccine's immunogenicity. In specific situations, such as when an individual's immune system is compromised or there are specific medical indications, healthcare professionals may recommend alternative vaccination strategies, such as early vaccination or booster doses (Figure 1) (Duan et al., 2022). Although the chickenpox vaccine is highly effective in providing immune protection, it is not suitable for everyone. For example, pregnant women, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those allergic to vaccine components should consult a doctor and make a vaccination decision based on the doctor's advice. Doctors will consider factors such as the patient's age, health status, and immunization history to develop the most

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