Sign inBook Now
A peaceful Mediterranean coastline and blue sea
Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Chickenpox vaccine

Chickenpox vaccination reduces the risk and severity of varicella infection.

What is it?

Chickenpox is a highly contagious varicella-zoster virus infection. It commonly causes an itchy blistering rash and fever and can occasionally cause serious complications.

Where it may be relevant

  • Non-immune adults and children for whom private vaccination is appropriate
  • People with close contacts at higher risk of severe chickenpox after clinical review
  • Travellers or workers needing evidence-based protection

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Two-dose course

Eligible adults and children

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2At least 4 weeks

The minimum interval depends on age and product.

Who may be eligible

  • People from the selected product's licensed age without reliable evidence of immunity
  • Those able to avoid pregnancy for the period specified after this live vaccine

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
  • Pregnancy and significant immune suppression are contraindications to this live vaccine
  • Recent blood products and some antiviral medicines may affect timing

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment
  • A mild vaccine-related rash can occur; contact with highly vulnerable people may need to be avoided if this develops

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the chickenpox vaccine protect against?

It protects against varicella, the virus that causes chickenpox.

Who should consider the chickenpox vaccine?

It is considered for people without immunity when a live vaccine is clinically suitable.

How many doses of the chickenpox vaccine are needed?

Two doses are normally required, with an age-appropriate interval.

Can I have the chickenpox vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the chickenpox vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.