How long to avoid a child who had MMR/Varicella Live Virus Vaccines?

[Anesidora]

We have a friend who is going in for her 4-year-old immunizations. I looked at the chart and according to it, the friend will be getting the MMR and Varicella (both live virus vaccines, no?) as well as the flu vaccine. So... how long would you keep your unvaccinated child from someone getting these vaccines? Thanks!

[balancedmama]

Good question. Subbing.

[sbgrace]

Eh, I wouldn't worry about it in the least unless the child gets flumist rather than an influenza shot.
If it is the nasal flumist I'd avoid as it can transmit. I'm not sure how long. http://www.hpathy.com/health/barb-flumist-vaccine.asp Apparently the recommend avoiding close contact for three weeks following flumist with an immunocompromised individual. Clearly your daughter isn't immune compromised but if you want to be extra cautious I guess three weeks if she got flumist.

Otherwise it would be quite rare for a child to transmit chicken pox (and I think nill unless the child develops chicken pox blisters or the like from the vaccine). I don't believe there has ever been a vaccine related measles transmission and no transmission of rubella except through breastmilk.

Think of it this way...if this were a huge concern think of all those babies who aren't vaccinated for either MMR or chicken pox until at least a year old and yet their older sibilngs are getting the shots and coming home and loving on them. Think of a daycare. Think of the possible exposure your kid gets at the library. I just wouldn't sweat this at all. But flumist I'd stay clear of...no one wants the flu!

[rhiandmoi]

Why would you want to avoid them while they are shedding the virus? Isn't this a good way to get an exposure and build the natural immunity?

[Deborah]

http://insidevaccines.com/wordpress/...cine-shedding/

useful overview of vaccines and shedding

[alegna]

Personally I wouldn't probably bother with avoiding them unless they get flumist.

-Angela

[lioralourie]

This is the only reason we go to Play group each month, to possibly catch M M or R immunity...

personally I'd invite them over twice a week! (and share lollies...)