If your child has not yet been vaccinated against chickenpox, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this as soon as possible.

While chicken pox (medically known as varicella) is usually mild, it can cause serious health problems. Your child can still catch the disease after being vaccinated, but it will be much milder with only a few skin lesions.

Since the vaccine was licensed in 1995, several million doses have been given to U.S. children, and it has been shown to be safe and effective.

With most children now vaccinated (the first dose of the MMRV vaccine for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella is given to children between 12 months and 15 months of age), it’s more difficult for unvaccinated children to catch the disease. That means they are at higher risk of getting it as an adult, when it can be a more serious illness.

See also ...

• The MMRV vaccine and what you need to know

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.