Chickenpox Vaccination

Service Description

The vaccine is suitable for children: - over 12 months of age - with a competent immune system - who have not had another live vaccine in the past 4 weeks* - who do not have an allergy to the vaccine or any of its ingredients - who do not currently have an illness with a fever of 38.5 or higher ​ *Live vaccines need to either be given together, or 4 weeks apart. Common live vaccines for children include MMR and Fluenz Tetra nasal flu vaccine. ​ The varicella (chickenpox) vaccine ​ The vaccine is live, containing virus which has been attenuated (weakened). The two-dose vaccination schedule provides about 98% protection in children and about 75% protection in adolescents and adults. In both age groups, most of the breakthrough infections are milder and vaccinated individuals who contract chickenpox have fewer blisters and less systemic upset than unvaccinated individuals. Dosage and schedules Children from one year of age or older and adults should receive two doses of varicella vaccine, four to eight weeks apart, usually by intramuscular injection. Varicella vaccine can be given at the same time as other live vaccines such as MMR or the nasal flu vaccine Fluenz Tetra, or if not given at the same time should be given at least 4 weeks apart.