We all know that the chickenpox vaccine can help protect you from the potentially deadly virus. Last year, the government began recommending kids get two shots before turning six years old. But a shortage may make it difficult to get that booster.
Chicken pox causes more than an itchy, blistery rash.
It can also be deadly.
Which is why the Centers for Disease Control recommend children get two vaccines.
The first: between the ages of one year and 15 months, and then a second shot between ages four and six.
And yes, you really need that booster.
"In spite of getting the first vaccine, there is a certain percentage of children who only receive one vaccine who would have 'breakthrough chickenpox', not nearly as severe as regular chickenpox but were clearly contagious," said pediatrician Dr. Christine Halaburka
The initial symptoms include fever and feeling run down.
Problem is, days before anyone starts to look like this, they can pass along the virus.
"When the child has no pox at all and they are just breathing in and out and the virus is going everywhere," Dr. Halaburka said.
Doctors say once your youngster gets the two vaccines, the immunity should last a lifetime.
The problem is, vaccine production problems and an increased demand have meant a short supply of the shot.
"Currently we are having shortages of the chickenpox vaccine because we're trying to catch up on kids who haven't had a second dose when they're coming in," Dr. Halaburka said.
So parents, be diligent about getting your kids vaccinated because if you haven't had chickenpox yet, and your kids get it, they could give it to you.
It's important to know if you're kids do get chickenpox they need to stay isolated until all the sores have scabbed over.
