Varicella Vaccines and Vaccine-Associated Injuries
The varicella vaccine, commonly known as the chickenpox vaccine, is widely administered to protect against the varicella-zoster virus. While the vaccine is generally safe, in rare cases, individuals may experience serious adverse events linked to the vaccine. The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (“VICP”) recognizes certain varicella-related conditions as compensable injuries under its Vaccine Injury Table.
Two such conditions are:
(1) Disseminated varicella vaccine-strain viral disease, and
(2) Varicella vaccine-strain viral reactivation disease.
Both conditions involve the live, attenuated virus used in the varicella vaccine and must meet specific diagnostic and timing criteria to qualify for compensation.
Disseminated Varicella Vaccine-Strain Viral Disease
This condition occurs when the vaccine-strain varicella virus spreads beyond the original injection site and/or affects internal organs. The Vaccine Injury Table defines this illness as a varicella infection involving the skin outside the dermatome where the vaccine was administered or involving one or more internal organs. To meet the definition under the VICP the viral disease must be caused by the vaccine-strain virus. If strain determination is not available, the illness must appear between 7 to 42 days after vaccination.
Varicella Vaccine-Strain Viral Reactivation Disease
This refers to the reactivation of the vaccine-strain virus, typically presenting as herpes zoster (shingles), it may involve the skin alone or be accompanied by disease in other organs. Herpes zoster manifests as a painful, localized rash affecting one or more dermatomes, often accompanied by burning or itching. Under the VICP definition, the condition must involve laboratory-confirmed vaccine-strain varicella virus.
Legal Considerations and the VICP
Claims for varicella vaccine-related injuries must be filed in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, also known as the "Vaccine Court." Claimants must submit medical documentation and, where required, laboratory evidence confirming the presence of the vaccine-strain virus.
The VICP provides compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Legal representation can help claimants meet these requirements and present a complete, well-supported claim.
Contact a Vaccine Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one developed an injury, you may have a legal claim. At Texas Vaccine Lawyers, a Division of The Greenwood Law Firm, we help clients navigate the VICP claims process to seek justice for vaccine-related injuries. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.