Chickenpox Vaccination

Varicella Vaccine

Varicella zoster is the virus that causes chickenpox. The varicella vaccine is a vaccine against chickenpox – also known as the chickenpox vaccine.

A chickenpox vaccination is not part of the childhood vaccination schedule but if you have any concerns, you can request the vaccine privately with a doctor at IPSA.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox often affects children, but the virus is usually mild and there are rarely any complications.

Your child will usually only catch chickenpox once, as after they have been infected their bodies automatically develop immunity to it.

If an adult gets chickenpox, it can be much more severe.

Certain people are more likely to suffer serious complications from chickenpox:

•  If you have a weakened immune system, often caused by illnesses like HIV or if you have had chemotherapy treatment.
• If you are pregnant. The chickenpox infection can have serious repercussions for the unborn baby, leading to serious birth defects or severe disease in the newborn baby.

Chickenpox vaccines are not routinely available on the NHS but at IPSA medical, we can vaccinate you or your child against the virus.

We will provide a full consultation with a doctor and complete the full vaccination schedule at a time that suits you. Early vaccinations are more effective, and after your clinical consultation and examination we can vaccinate immediately. We will book you in for your second vaccine in six weeks.

Call IPSA for chickenpox and other vaccinations today. Our doctors can usually offer patients a same-day appointment.

How Does the Chickenpox Vaccination Work?

When you have a chickenpox vaccine, a small amount of weakened live varicella zoster virus is introduced to your system. This causes your immune system to produce antibodies that will help protect you against chickenpox.

You will be given two separate injections, four to eight weeks apart. The injection is usually administered in the upper arm.

The chickenpox vaccination has been shown to be highly effective. Nine out of 10 children who are vaccinated with a single dose will develop immunity against the virus. The recommended double dose schedule gives an even better immune response.

The vaccination is best administered in childhood as it is not quite as effective for adults. Approximately  three-quarters of adults and teenagers who are vaccinated will develop immunity against chickenpox.

If you want a chickenpox vaccine for yourself or your child, contact IPSA for an appointment.