Increase in Chickenpox Cases Points to a Decline in Community Immunity

Prof. Dr. Levent Doğancı stated that the main reason behind the recent rise in chickenpox cases is the weakening of community immunity. He emphasized that shortcomings in vaccination practices pose a threat not only to present-day public health but also in the long term.

Inequality in Vaccination Undermines Community Immunity 

Highlighting that having a partially vaccinated population poses a serious risk, Prof. Dr. Doğancı noted that such a situation is unacceptable in a country with a population exceeding 85 million. He explained that vaccinating some children while leaving others unvaccinated allows the disease to continue circulating within the community.

Mild in Childhood, Severe in Adulthood 

Reminding that chickenpox is generally a mild illness in childhood, Prof. Dr. Doğancı stated that in the past, when vaccines were not available, it was considered natural for children to contract the disease at an early age. However, he warned that cases occurring in adulthood can lead to much more severe complications. The highly contagious virus may cause serious conditions such as pneumonia and inflammation of the brain and meninges.

Pregnant Women Are the Highest-Risk Group 

Emphasizing that pregnant women are among the highest-risk groups, Prof. Dr. Doğancı stated that chickenpox during pregnancy may result in fetal loss or permanent health problems after birth. He underlined that such outcomes have serious medical as well as psychological consequences for families.

Vaccine-Induced Immunity May Decline Over Time 

Prof. Dr. Doğancı noted that immunity acquired through vaccination may not always be as long-lasting as immunity gained through natural infection. He explained that as immunity wanes over time, even vaccinated individuals may become susceptible to the virus later in life. A decrease in immunity during pregnancy, in particular, carries significant risks.

Vaccination Must Be Free and Accessible 

Stressing that vaccines must be provided free of charge and inclusively in order to achieve effective community immunity, Prof. Dr. Doğancı said, “If a vaccine is included in the national immunization schedule, it must be delivered equally and free of charge to all children.” Otherwise, adequate protection at the societal level cannot be ensured.

Proper Administration Is Critical for Effectiveness 

Drawing attention to technical errors in vaccine administration, Prof. Dr. Doğancı stated that the chickenpox vaccine is a live virus vaccine and must be administered using the correct technique and to the appropriate anatomical site. Injecting the vaccine into connective tissues such as tendons can significantly reduce its effectiveness.

Shared Responsibility for Community Immunity 

Prof. Dr. Levent Doğancı emphasized that increasing vaccination rates, ensuring proper administration, and providing equal access across all segments of society are essential to preventing the resurgence of chickenpox. He added that strengthening public health policies in this area is of vital importance.

Source: mansethaber.com