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European Journal of Pediatrics
Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics 1/2008

01-01-2008 | Original Paper

Varicella vaccination in Europe: are we ready for a universal childhood programme?

Authors: Nitu Sengupta, Robert Booy, H. J. Schmitt, Heikki Peltola, Pierre Van-Damme, R. Fabian Schumacher, Magda Campins, Carlos Rodrigo, Terho Heikkinen, Jane Seward, Aisha Jumaan, Adam Finn, Per Olcén, Nancy Thiry, Catherine Weil-Olivier, Judith Breuer

Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 1/2008

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Abstract

Safe and effective vaccines against varicella zoster virus (VZV), the aetiological agent of varicella and shingles, have been available in Europe for the last 5–10 years. The USA has had a universal childhood vaccination policy since 1995 and this has resulted in a dramatic decrease in the incidence, morbidity and mortality related to varicella. The economic and medical burden of VZV has led to discussions regarding both the desirability and feasability of a similar routine immunisation policy for all European children. This article examines the epidemiology of varicella in Europe and how the data emerging from the USA can be used to achieve adequate prevention of the disease. It looks into the current evidence of the health economic evaluation of universal varicella vaccination and explores the concerns surrounding such a policy, including the postulated impact on the incidence of zoster. In conclusion, the Society of Independent European Vaccination Experts (SIEVE) recommends that the immunisation of susceptible adolescents needs to be urgently implemented, in addition to the current recommendations targeting high-risk patients, their close contacts with a negative history of varicella and seronegative health-care workers. A universal policy, optimally incorporating a two-dose schedule, will be needed to finally reduce the burden of disease of varicella from a societal point of view. The SIEVE recommends the implementation of such a policy as soon as financially and practically possible.
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Metadata
Title
Varicella vaccination in Europe: are we ready for a universal childhood programme?
Authors
Nitu Sengupta
Robert Booy
H. J. Schmitt
Heikki Peltola
Pierre Van-Damme
R. Fabian Schumacher
Magda Campins
Carlos Rodrigo
Terho Heikkinen
Jane Seward
Aisha Jumaan
Adam Finn
Per Olcén
Nancy Thiry
Catherine Weil-Olivier
Judith Breuer
Publication date
01-01-2008
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
European Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 1/2008
Print ISSN: 0340-6199
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1076
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-007-0424-0

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