Chickenpox Vaccine

Description

What is the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The Chickenpox Vaccine helps protect against chickenpox (varicella), a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

Although chickenpox is often mild in healthy children, it can cause more serious illness in adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is an effective way to reduce the risk of catching chickenpox and helps protect against severe illness and complications. A full course consists of two doses, providing high levels of protection against infection.

At The Kingston Pharmacy, the Chickenpox Vaccine is provided as part of our clinician-led vaccination service following a suitability assessment by our trained healthcare professionals.

Vaccine Information

The Chickenpox Vaccine available at The Kingston Pharmacy is:

• Varivax® or Varilrix®

For most adults and children receiving the vaccine privately, a course of two doses is recommended, with the second dose given at least four weeks after the first. Our healthcare professional will advise you on the most appropriate vaccination schedule based on your age and vaccination history.

How Does the Chickenpox Vaccine Work?

The Chickenpox Vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine containing a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus.

It works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies against the virus. If you are exposed to chickenpox in the future, your immune system is better prepared to recognise and fight the infection, significantly reducing your risk of developing chickenpox or experiencing severe illness.

Vaccination may help to:

• Protect against chickenpox infection
• Reduce the risk of severe illness and complications
• Lower the risk of hospitalisation
• Reduce the severity of illness if infection occurs after vaccination
• Provide long-lasting protection following a complete vaccination course

Who May Be Suitable for the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The Chickenpox Vaccine may be suitable for:

• Adults and children over 9 months of age who have not previously had chickenpox or been vaccinated.
• Individuals who wish to reduce their risk of catching chickenpox.
• People who are in close contact with individuals at increased risk of severe chickenpox.
• Travellers where vaccination is recommended.

Our healthcare professionals will assess your medical history and vaccination status to determine whether the vaccine is suitable for you.

How is the Vaccine Given?

The Chickenpox Vaccine is administered as a single intramuscular injection by one our of trained clinicians.

The vaccine is usually administered into the upper arm in adults and older children, or into the thigh in younger children.

For most people, a complete vaccination course consists of two doses, with the second dose given at least four weeks after the first.

Potential Benefits

When administered appropriately, the Chickenpox Vaccine may:

• Help protect against chickenpox
• Reduce the risk of severe disease and complications
• Provide long-lasting immunity
• Reduce the severity of infection if chickenpox develops after vaccination
• Provide convenient vaccination within a community pharmacy setting

Possible Side Effects

Like all vaccines, the Chickenpox Vaccine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects may include:

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Mild rash
• Feeling generally unwell

These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction following vaccination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should consider the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The Chickenpox Vaccine may be suitable for:

• Adults and children who have not previously had chickenpox.
• Individuals who have not previously been vaccinated.
• People living with or caring for those at increased risk of severe chickenpox.
• Travellers where protection against chickenpox is recommended.

How many doses will I need?

Most people require two doses of the vaccine, given at least four weeks apart, to achieve the best protection.

Can I have the Chickenpox Vaccine if I’ve already had chickenpox?

Most people who have previously had chickenpox develop long-lasting immunity and do not require vaccination. If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox, our clinicians can discuss your options during your consultation.

Can I receive other vaccines at the same appointment?

In many cases, yes. Your healthcare professional will advise whether other vaccines can be administered during the same appointment.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Appointments are required so that we can assess your suitability, answer any questions and administer the vaccine safely.

Our Chickenpox Vaccination Service

At The Kingston Pharmacy, we provide a personalised, clinician-led vaccination service designed to help protect you and your family against chickenpox.

Before vaccination, you will complete a confidential consultation covering your:

• Medical history
• Current medications
• Previous vaccinations
• Allergies
• Previous history of chickenpox
• Relevant medical conditions
• Travel plans (where applicable)

Your consultation will be carefully reviewed by one of our trained clinicians, who will assess whether the vaccine is appropriate for you and answer any questions before your vaccination.

Convenient Appointment Times

Once your appointment has been booked, you can attend The Kingston Pharmacy at a convenient time for your vaccination.

Our trained healthcare professionals administer vaccinations in a private consultation room, ensuring your comfort, privacy and safety throughout your appointment.

Vaccination Advice and Support
As your local community pharmacy, we are available to answer any questions you may have before or after your appointment. Whether you would like advice about possible side effects, your second dose or general vaccination advice, our friendly pharmacy team is always happy to help.

You can contact us by telephone, email or by visiting the pharmacy, and we will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.

 

Important Information

The Chickenpox Vaccine is not suitable for everyone and should only be administered following an appropriate clinical assessment.

Because it is a live vaccine, it is not suitable during pregnancy or for some people with weakened immune systems. Your healthcare professional will assess your suitability during your consultation.

Always inform your healthcare professional of any allergies, previous vaccine reactions or current illness before receiving the vaccine.