Deaths from chickenpox in England and Wales 1995-7: analysis of routine mortality data.
Rawson, H;
Crampin, A;
Noah, N;
(2001)
Deaths from chickenpox in England and Wales 1995-7: analysis of routine mortality data.
BMJ (Clinical research ed), 323 (7321).
pp. 1091-1093.
ISSN 0959-8138
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.323.7321.1091
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OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the epidemiology and impact of mortality from chickenpox in England and Wales. DESIGN: Review of death certificates from the Office for National Statistics on which codes for "chickenpox" or "varicella" were mentioned. Further information ascertained from certifying physician. PARTICIPANTS: Those certified as having died from chickenpox in England and Wales, 1995-7. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Diagnosis and age and sex distributions of deaths from chickenpox. RESULTS: On average, 25 people a year die from chickenpox. Overall case fatality was 9.22 per 100 000 consultations for chickenpox. Adults accounted for 81% of deaths and 19% of consultations. Deaths were twice as common in men as in women. More of those who died were born outside United Kingdom than expected (12% v 4%). CONCLUSIONS: Chickenpox is not a mild disease. Deaths in adults are increasing, both in number and proportion.
