The effect of active immunization on varicella-related hospitalizations in Israel

Liat Lerner-Geva*, Galit Hirsh-Yechezkel, Ilia Novikov, Hagit Farkash, Valentina Boyko, Zvi Spirer, Justen H. Passwell

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to report on the impact of introduction of the varicella vaccine "Varilix" on hospitalizations due to varicella, following licensure in Israel in June, 2000. Data on children hospitalized throughout Israel with the diagnosis of varicella were collected from 1998 until 2003. The national rate of varicella-related hospitalizations decreased during the period 2001-2002. However in 2003 an increase in hospitalization occurred. Based on an assumption that at least 22,000 vaccinations per year were administered, we estimate that there is a greater than 60% reduction in the risk for hospitalization in the immunized population (RR = 0.32; 0.10-1.00). In summary, no national trend in reduction of hospitalization has yet been observed, but a significant reduction in hospitalization is apparent for vaccinated children.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)136-140
Number of pages5
JournalHuman Vaccines
Volume5
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Funding

FundersFunder number
GlaxoSmithKline

    Keywords

    • Children
    • Hospitalization
    • Immunization
    • Vaccine
    • Varicella

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