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The varicella vaccine helps protect against the common childhood illness chicken pox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). In most cases, it is not possible for people to spread VZV after being vaccinated.
Features
The only way in which a person might possibly spread VZV as a result of vaccination is by developing a rash after, which happens in 1 to 4 percent of people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Considerations
A person who develops a post-vaccination rash should avoid contact with people who have weakened immune systems, as these people are at high risk for vaccine-rash-related VZV, according to the CDC.
Shingles Vaccine
Another vaccine is given to older adults to protect against shingles, which is also caused by VZV. Rash is also a possible complication of this vaccination.
Effects
There are no documented cases of passing VZV due to shingles vaccination rash, but the CDC recommends covering the rash until it disappears as a precaution.
Warning
Neither the varicella nor shingles vaccines protect 100 percent of people from infection; a person who has been vaccinated but still contracts the virus can pass it on to other people.
Source:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine Q&A
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Herpes Zoster Vaccine Q&A
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