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A live-virus vaccine (Varivax [Varicella Virus Vaccine Live (Oka/Merck)] ) produces persistent immunity against chicken pox. Data show that the vaccine can prevent chicken pox or reduce the severity of the illness even if it is used within three days, and possibly up to five days, after exposure to the infection. The vaccine against chicken pox is now recommended in the US for all children between the ages of 18 months and adolescence who have not yet had chicken pox. Children are given one dose of the vaccine. Two doses one to two months apart are given to people over 13 years of age. To date, more than 75% of children have been vaccinated. Some experts suggest that every healthy adult without a known history of chicken pox be vaccinated.
Varicella-zoster immune globulin [VZIG (Massachusetts Public Health Biologic Laboratories, Boston, MA)] is a substance that triggers an immune response against the varicella-zoster virus. It is used to protect high-risk patients who are exposed to chickenpox, or those who cannot receive a vaccination of the live virus.
Postherpetic neuralgia is difficult to treat. Once PHN develops, a multidisciplinary approach that involves a pain specialist, psychiatrist, primary care physician, and other health-care providers may provide the best means to relieve the pain and distress associated with this condition. |
