Chickenpox (also called varicella) is a common childhood disease.  It is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young infants and adults.  Chickenpox vaccine can prevent chickenpox.  Most people who get chickenpox vaccine will not get chickenpox.  But if someone who has been vaccinated does get chickenpox, it is usually very mild.  They will have fewer blisters, are less likely to have a fever, and will recover faster. 

Before the vaccine, about 11,000 people in the US were hospitalized each year as a result of chickenpox and 100 died.  The number of deaths has been reduced to 10/year since vaccination began. 

Children who have never had a chickenpox should get 2 doses of chickenpox vaccine at these ages:

1st Dose:  12-15 months of age

2nd Dose:  4-6 year of age (may be given earlier, if at least 3 months after the 1st does)

People 13 years of age and older (who have never had chickenpox or received chickenpox vaccine) should get two doses at least 28 days apart.