Q.8 Varicella Zoster vaccine is administered for
1.Hepatitis B virus
2.Chicken pox virus
3.Small pox virus
4.Polio virus
The Varicella Zoster vaccine is administered for Chicken pox virus. It targets Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox (varicella) in children and shingles (herpes zoster) later in life, preventing primary infection with high efficacy.
Option Analysis
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(1) Hepatitis B virus: HBV vaccine uses recombinant HBsAg protein to prevent liver infection and cirrhosis; unrelated to VZV or skin rashes.
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(2) Chicken pox virus: Correct—Varicella Zoster vaccine (live attenuated Oka strain) immunizes against VZV, reducing chickenpox incidence by 76-94% after one dose.
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(3) Small pox virus: Smallpox vaccine (vaccinia virus) eradicated variola; VZV vaccine does not target poxviruses.
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(4) Polio virus: OPV/IPV vaccines prevent poliovirus paralysis; no connection to VZV.
The answer is (2) Chicken pox virus.
Introduction to Varicella Zoster Vaccine
Varicella Zoster vaccine is administered for Chicken pox virus (VZV), a herpesvirus causing itchy rash and fever. This live attenuated vaccine (e.g., Varivax) is routine for children, preventing varicella and future shingles.
Role in Preventing Chickenpox
Administered subcutaneously in two doses (12-15 months and 4-6 years), it elicits antibodies and T-cell immunity against VZV. Effectiveness: 90% against severe disease.
Other Vaccine Options Explained
Hepatitis B vaccine targets HBV envelope; smallpox uses vaccinia against variola; polio employs inactivated/Sabin strains for enterovirus. None match VZV.
GATE Exam Relevance
Key for immunology/virology sections: Recognize Varicella Zoster vaccine is administered for Chicken pox virus to score in competitive exams.
