Understanding Chickenpox: A Preventable Childhood Disease
What Causes Chickenpox?
Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). This virus is part of the herpesvirus family and is capable of staying dormant in the body, potentially reactivating later in life as shingles (herpes zoster). The hallmark symptoms of chickenpox include:
- An itchy, blister-like skin rash
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
While chickenpox is often mild in children, it can lead to severe complications in adults and immunocompromised individuals.
Why Chickenpox Is Still a Concern in Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, chickenpox continues to spread rapidly, particularly in urban overcrowded settings, schools, and among unvaccinated children. Limited awareness, lack of routine vaccination programs for varicella, and misconceptions about the disease being “harmless” contribute to the ongoing public health burden. The virus spreads easily from person to person, especially in close quarters.
Chickenpox in Bangladesh: The Epidemiological Picture
Incidence Rates and Seasonal Trends
Chickenpox outbreaks in Bangladesh follow a seasonal pattern, with increased cases during the spring and dry winter months. Data from previous studies show:
- Infection in 59% of children up to 16 years
- 302.6 per 100,000 infection rate among infants
- Higher mortality and complication rates in adults and pregnant women
The virus is endemic in the country and contributes to missed school days, lost income for parents, and hospital overcrowding during outbreaks.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- Infants and toddlers (especially under 1 year)
- Pregnant women, who risk transmitting the virus to their unborn babies
- Elderly adults and those with chronic diseases
- Unvaccinated school-aged children
- Healthcare workers, who are frequently exposed
Special care is required for pregnant women exposed to chickenpox, as fetal exposure can lead to congenital varicella syndrome—a condition associated with limb deformities, neurological disorders, and low birth weight.
Chickenpox Vaccine in Bangladesh: Why It Matters
Rising Need for Vaccination in Children and Vulnerable Groups
Despite the global availability of effective vaccines, chickenpox vaccination is not part of the routine immunization schedule in Bangladesh. As a result, many children remain unprotected, leaving them susceptible to complications and outbreaks.
Vaccination can prevent:
- 90–98% of infections with two doses
- Hospitalization due to bacterial superinfections, pneumonia, or encephalitis
- Long-term complications like shingles in later life
Countries that have introduced routine varicella vaccination have seen a 70–90% drop in cases, highlighting the importance of incorporating the chickenpox vaccine in Bangladesh’s public health agenda.
The Role of Public Health Awareness
There remains a significant awareness gap about the dangers of chickenpox and the benefits of vaccination. Many still view chickenpox as a harmless rite of passage in childhood, ignoring its potentially fatal consequences in vulnerable groups.
Public health campaigns should focus on:
- Educating parents about vaccine safety and effectiveness
- Dispelling myths about varicella complications
- Encouraging pediatricians and general practitioners to recommend vaccination
Introducing Varivax: Trusted Protection Against Chickenpox
What Is Varivax and How Does It Work?
Varivax is a live attenuated varicella virus vaccine produced by Merck, now made accessible in Bangladesh through Health Care Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It contains the Oka/Merck strain, which is scientifically modified to stimulate an immune response without causing illness.
Safety and Efficacy of Varivax in Clinical Practice
Varivax has demonstrated strong clinical outcomes:
- One dose is about 85% effective
- Two doses provide up to 98% protection
- Mild side effects such as pain at the injection site or low-grade fever are rare and self-limiting
It’s especially effective in school immunization programs, preventing classroom outbreaks and ensuring healthier learning environments.
Varivax Dosing Schedule and Administration in Bangladesh
When Should Children Get Vaccinated?
The recommended schedule for Varivax includes:
- 1st dose at 12–15 months of age
- 2nd dose at 4–6 years, or at least 3 months after the first dose
Catch-up vaccination is recommended for older children, teens, and adults who haven’t had chickenpox or the vaccine.
Chickenpox Vaccine in Bangladesh: Where to Get It
Availability of Varivax Across the Country
Through Pledge to Protect, an initiative by Health Care Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Varivax is available in Bangladesh at:
- Private hospitals
- Diagnostic centers
- Selected pharmacies
- Pediatric clinics
Visit https://pledgetoprotect.net/varivax/ to find the nearest vaccination center or book a consultation with a pediatrician.
Pledge to Protect: Our Commitment to Health
At Health Care Pharmaceuticals Ltd., our mission is to improve access to life-saving vaccines like Varivax. Through the Pledge to Protect initiative, we aim to create a chickenpox-free future for children and families in Bangladesh by promoting science-backed solutions.
Vaccination is more than a health decision—it’s an investment in the future. In a country like Bangladesh, where chickenpox continues to cause avoidable suffering, introducing a safe and effective vaccine like Varivax® is a critical step forward.
By choosing to vaccinate:
- You protect your child from painful rashes and missed school days
- You reduce the risk of severe illness or death
- You help build a healthier, more resilient community
In conclusion, the chickenpox vaccine in Bangladesh represents a vital step toward protecting children, adults, and vulnerable populations from a preventable yet potentially serious disease. With effective options like Varivax® now available through trusted providers, raising awareness and encouraging vaccination can drastically reduce infection rates, hospitalizations, and long-term complications. As Bangladesh moves toward stronger public health infrastructure, integrating the chickenpox vaccine into routine care is not just a medical necessity—it’s a commitment to a healthier, safer future for all.
FAQ Section: Chickenpox Vaccine in Bangladesh
- Where can I get the chickenpox vaccine in Bangladesh?
You can get the chickenpox vaccine at major private hospitals, pediatric clinics, and selected pharmacies across Bangladesh. You can also visit https://pledgetoprotect.net/varivax/ to find locations offering the Varivax® vaccine and book an appointment.
- What is the recommended chickenpox vaccination schedule for children?
According to global guidelines followed in Bangladesh:
- 1st dose: At 12–15 months of age
- 2nd dose: At 4–6 years, or at least 3 months after the first dose
This two-dose schedule ensures long-term protection and reduces the risk of breakthrough infections.
- How much does the chickenpox vaccine cost in Bangladesh?
The cost of the chickenpox vaccine in Bangladesh can vary by provider and location, typically ranging between BDT 2,000 to 5,000 per dose. Prices may also vary depending on whether you choose a clinic, private hospital, or pharmacy. It’s best to contact your local provider or check online at https://pledgetoprotect.net/varivax/ for updated pricing.
- Is Varivax a safe chickenpox vaccine for children and adults?
Yes,Varivax is a WHO-prequalified, live attenuated vaccine with a strong safety profile. It has been used in over 62 countries for more than three decades, with over 238 million doses distributed worldwide. Mild side effects like low fever or soreness at the injection site may occur but are temporary.
- Can adults in Bangladesh get vaccinated against chickenpox?
Absolutely. Unvaccinated adults who have never had chickenpox—especially healthcare workers, teachers, or parents—should consider getting vaccinated with two doses of Varivax®. This helps prevent serious complications like pneumonia and shingles later in life.
- Why is the chickenpox vaccine important in Bangladesh?
In Bangladesh, chickenpox remains a seasonal and endemic disease, affecting children and vulnerable adults every year. Vaccination helps:
- Prevent school outbreaks
- Reduce hospital admissions
- Protect pregnant women and infants from complications
Wider vaccine coverage can lead to a healthier, safer population.