Decline in varicella-related ambulatory visits and hospitalizations in the United States since routine immunization against varicella.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Widespread varicella vaccination has led to substantial decreases in varicella-related mortality and hospitalizations. The effect of the vaccine on ambulatory care utilization is poorly defined.

Objective

To determine trends in varicella-related ambulatory care and hospital discharges before and after vaccine licensure.

Design, setting, and participants

Estimates of varicella-related ambulatory and hospital discharges were calculated for the pre- (1993-1995) and post- (1996-2004) vaccine licensure periods using the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, and National Hospital Discharge Survey.

Main outcome measure

Ambulatory and hospital discharge rates for varicella.

Results

The rate of varic

SUBMITTER: Shah SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2924155 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature