Varicella confusion

My daughter had both varicella shots before starting grade school. There was a clerical error and her pediatrician at the time didn't mark down the second dose on the immunization card. She is now 12 years old and has a new pediatrician who is badgering me about this, telling me she needs a second dose. She had it already, ( she wouldn't be allowed in school if she didn't ) this is a clerical error, but no one will listen to me.

IS it safe for this doctor to give this a third time?? ( she won't get off my case, insisting my daughter get this, saying she should have had it at 4 years old...it's a confusing mess lol )

[Philip D Parks, MD, MPH, MOccH, FACOEM]

Hello,

In general, it is safe. However, it may not be necessary. If you are willing to have the pediatrician's office perform a blood draw, immunity (antibodies) to varicella can be measured.

~•~ Dr. Parks

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical or legal advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.