The chickenpox vaccine protects against the varicella zoster virus. This causes chickenpox. It's also called the varicella vaccine.
It’s not part of routine childhood vaccination.
You can pay to get the vaccine from your GP. It can be given to anyone over 12 months old.
Consider getting the vaccine if you have not had chickenpox before and you’re:
- a healthcare worker
- in close contact with someone who has a weak immune system, for example, a child could have the vaccine if their parent is having chemotherapy
When you should not have the chickenpox vaccine
You should not have the chickenpox vaccine if you:
- have a weak immune system
- are pregnant
- are seriously unwell – delay having the vaccination until you recover
- have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine, or to any of its ingredients (ask your GP if you're unsure)
If you have the vaccine, try to avoid becoming pregnant within 1 month.
Number of doses
Two doses of the vaccine are needed, at least 4 weeks apart.
Chickenpox vaccine side effects
Side effects of the vaccine may include:
- pain, redness or swelling in the arm or leg
- fever
- rash