Chicken pox protects against asthma and atopy

Wild-type varicella zoster virus infection (chicken pox) early in childhood has been shown to protect against the development of asthma and atopy. A study published in the August issue of American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, followed 256 children and adolescents (age 1-18 years) with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) and 422 age-matched healthy controls from 2005 to 2007.

A single episode of chicken pox in childhood is associated with decreased odds ratio of developing AD and is associated with decreased odds of moderate or severe AD. Children with chicken pox, compared with chicken pox vaccine, who eventually develop AD require fewer pediatrician sick visits for management of AD.

In conclusion, chicken pox in childhood protects up to 10 years of age against AD, delays onset of AD symptoms, and decreases AD severity and office visit.

Bonnie - I wonder if the CDC paid attention to this study. If there is allergy in your family history, especially allergy-related skin conditions, you should think long and hard about getting the chicken pox vaccine for your children.