Editor,—Gershon summarised the rationale for universal varicella immunisation and strongly advocated its implementation in developed countries.1 While the reduction of varicella associated morbidity is indeed an important public health goal, it seems warranted to draw attention to epidemiological, political, economic, and cultural characteristics of Europe that may affect the success of a universal varicella vaccination programme.

Recent epidemiological data indicate that severe complications of varicella are uncommon in Europe.2 3 Persuading primary care physicians of the need for universal varicella vaccination …