Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccination
On This Page:
What Is Chickenpox?
What Is the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Who Can Receive the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Is the Chickenpox Vaccine Safe?
How Does Chickenpox Spread?
What Are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?
How Long Does the Chickenpox Vaccine Last?
Where Can I Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a blister-like rash across the body. It is common for those infected to have between 250 and 500 itchy, annoying blisters.
Those at highest risk are babies, adults and those with weakened immune systems. The best prevention is through vaccination.
What Is the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The chickenpox, or varicella, vaccine provides the best protection against chickenpox and the varicella-zoster virus.
Two types of immunization are available:
- One – Protects against chickenpox. Approved for use in children 12 to 15 months and four to six-years-old.
- The Other – A combination chickenpox-measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. It is approved for use in children 12 months to 12-years-old.
Who Can Receive the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The CDC recommends children receive two doses. One at 12 to 15 months and another at four to six-years-old. The second dose can be given after at least three months, if necessary.
Anyone over the age of 13 who has never had varicella should get two doses at least 28 days apart.
Individuals who had an allergic reaction to a previous dose, pregnant women and immune compromised persons should not get the vaccine.
Those exposed to chickenpox that have not had it nor been vaccinated should consult a doctor. Vaccination may be recommended in these cases.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Chickenpox Vaccination
“The nurse was so very nice and professional. Walked through her consultation very well and gave me the chickenpox vaccine. Will be back for other vaccines.”
“I went for routine vaccinations, hepatitis B and chickenpox, and I ended up really enjoying my experience at Passport Health. The technician was amazing and friendly. I looked forward to going to my visits, actually.”
“We had a great experience during our consultation. It was informative but also to the point. Everything was explained clearly so that we knew what to expect and what to do upon return if we showed any symptoms. We received some vaccines (yellow fever, chickenpox, hepatitis A) there and can easily pick up the other at our pharmacy. We were very pleased!”
Is the Chickenpox Vaccine Safe?
Yes, the chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective. Side effects are rare and generally include sore arm or mild rash. This is common with any vaccination or injection. For additional information see the CDC’s chickenpox vaccine safety page.
How Does Chickenpox Spread?
The varicella-zoster virus spreads quickly and easily through touching or breathing viral particles. Blisters are the most common source of spread.
Chickenpox can spread from someone with shingles to other who has never had the disease. This happens if a person touches or inhales droplets of the shingles blisters.
How Long Is a Person with Chickenpox Contagious?
Infected persons can spread the virus for a few days before showing symptoms until blisters have scabbed. Many people will not show symptoms for anywhere from 10 to 21 days after exposure.
What Are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?
Symptoms of chickenpox normally last five to seven days. They will often include:
Are Chickenpox Parties Dangerous?
Find out more about this growing trend
See our blog post learn more.
- Itchy, Fluid-Filled Blisters
- Rash (especially on face, chest and back)
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Loss of Appetite
Severe cases of chickenpox are rare, but possible. Complications can include bacterial infection, bleeding and dehydration.
How Long Does the Chickenpox Vaccine Last?
Multiple studies show the varicella vaccine provides at least 10 to 20 years protection after vaccination. Due to when these studies were conducted, around the time the vaccine was first released, it is possible immunization provides even longer term protection.
Where Can I Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The chickenpox vaccine is available and in-stock at all Passport Health locations. Call or book an appointment online today!
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
