Global experience with chickenpox vaccines and future prospects for the Russian Federation

INTRODUCTION. Chickenpox  is  a  highly  contagious  viral  disease  that  primarily  affects preschool children. A number of chickenpox vaccines are licensed worldwide, but there are still gaps in vaccination coverage. Chickenpox vaccines may  differ  in  efficacy,  and  certain issues with their long-term effectiveness remain unresolved. Chickenpox vaccines may have different safety profiles, and there are lingering concerns about adverse effects. These considerations highlight the need for further safety monitoring and the development of vaccination programmes.

AIM. This study aimed to summarise Russian and international experience in studying  the safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of chickenpox vaccines to improve and optimise immunisation strategies.

DISCUSSION. This paper presents an analysis of information on the development of  chickenpox vaccines and the assessment of their safety,  efficacy,  and  effectiveness  based  on clinical trial results and  real-world  evidence.  Most  licensed  vaccines  are  produced  from the original Oka strain of chickenpox virus (Varicella zoster), while a South Korean company produces a vaccine using its own MAV/06 strain. Chickenpox  vaccines  manufactured  in Belgium, the USA, China, and South Korea have demonstrated comparable safety, immunogenicity, efficacy, and effectiveness. Regional immunisation programmes have significantly reduced chickenpox incidence and complications, and  the  inclusion  of  chickenpox  vaccination in the national immunisation schedule of the Russian Federation is anticipated in the foreseeable future. The national immunisation programme may include vaccines  that  have been properly studied.

CONCLUSIONS. According to the analysis of national and international experience, live attenuated vaccines have comparable efficacy, effectiveness, and immunogenicity and are safe for human use. Consequently, chickenpox vaccines can be used in the development of the national immunisation programme in the Russian Federation.

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