Chickenpox Vaccine UK
The chickenpox vaccine, known as the varicella vaccine, is a safe and effective method for preventing the disease.
Chickenpox Virus
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is marked by an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters that can spread across the body.
Although chickenpox is usually mild in children, it can be more severe in adults and may lead to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
Symptoms of Chickenpox
Common symptoms include:
Itchy Rash
Fever
Fatigue
Headache
Loss of Appetite
Muscle or Joint Pain
How is Chickenpox Contracted?
Chickenpox is contracted through:
Touching the fluid from chickenpox blisters of an infected person.
Breathing in air droplets from coughs or sneezes of someone with chickenpox.
Touching items or surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus, although this is less common.
The varicella-zoster virus spreads easily, especially in crowded or close-contact settings.
Countries where chickenpox is a higher risk due to factors like lower vaccination rates, high population density, or crowded living conditions include:
- India: High population density and varying access to vaccination contribute to increased risk.
- Pakistan: Similar factors as in India, with significant outbreaks in densely populated areas.
- Bangladesh: High population density and lower vaccination coverage in some areas.
- Nigeria: Crowded living conditions and varying access to healthcare services.
- Brazil: Large urban populations and areas with lower vaccination coverage.
These countries may experience higher risks of chickenpox outbreaks due to these conditions.
Next Day Appointments are Available
Unsure which type of service you require?
If you feel confused regarding which travel vaccine you require for your holiday, you can book an appointment at the The Care Pharmacy Travel Clinic Leeds.
How to get vaccinated for Chickenpox?
Book an appointment & pay online
Fill an online form and select a time slot to save time at your appointment.
Get Your First Dose
Get a free consultation in our clinic, discuss your course options with our healthcare experts and receive your first vaccination.
Follow-up Dose(s)
You’ll get to know about followup doses during your first appointment.
FAQs
Yes, there is a vaccine for chickenpox. It is known as the varicella vaccine. The vaccine is effective in preventing chickenpox and is typically administered in two doses:
- First Dose: Given around 12-15 months of age.
- Second Dose: Given between 4-6 years of age.
The varicella vaccine has been successful in significantly reducing the incidence of chickenpox and preventing severe complications associated with the disease.
PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) protects against 13 of the roughly 90 types of pneumococcal bacteria that can cause diseases like pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections. PPSV23 (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) covers 23 different types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Most people who receive two doses of the varicella vaccine are protected for life. This long-term immunity helps prevent chickenpox and reduces the risk of severe complications associated with the disease.
At least 90% of adults are immune to chickenpox due to having had the disease in childhood. If you have a history of chickenpox, you generally do not need testing or vaccination. However, if you work in environments where your immune status needs to be documented, such as in a hospital, you may need to provide proof of immunity or consider vaccination.
The side effects of the varicella vaccine are generally mild. The most common reactions include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. A small number of people may develop a mild rash near the injection area. Severe side effects are very rare.
A vaccine can prevent most cases of the infection. If a person does contract the infection, they typically need to wait for their body to recover on its own.
The rash starts as numerous small red bumps that resemble pimples or insect bites. These bumps appear in stages over 2–4 days and then turn into thin-walled blisters filled with fluid. The blisters eventually burst, leaving open sores that eventually dry out and form brown scabs.
Adults with chickenpox should stay home from work until all the spots have formed crusts. The infection can spread 1 to 2 days before the rash appears and remains contagious until all the blisters have crusted over, which typically occurs 5 to 6 days after the rash begins.
Dos:
- Do Rest and Hydrate: Ensure adequate rest and drink plenty of fluids to help your body recover.
- Do Keep the Rash Clean: Gently wash the rash with lukewarm water and mild soap to avoid secondary infections.
- Do Use Anti-Itch Treatments: Apply calamine lotion or take antihistamines to relieve itching.
- Do Avoid Spreading the Infection: Stay home from work or school until all the blisters have crusted over to prevent spreading the infection to others.
- Do Consult a Healthcare Provider: Seek medical advice if you have concerns or if symptoms worsen.
Don’ts:
- Don’t Scratch the Rash: Scratching can lead to secondary infections and scarring.
- Don’t Use Aspirin: Avoid aspirin as it can lead to complications, particularly in children.
- Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing towels, bedding, or clothing to prevent spreading the virus.
- Don’t Go to Work or School: Stay away from public places until you are no longer contagious.
Don’t Overexpose to Sunlight: Protect your skin from direct sunlight to avoid irritation and potential scarring.
No matter your destination, The Care Pharmacy Travel Clinic in Leeds and Bradford is committed to ensuring your safety and protection throughout your journey.
Ready to Get Vaccinated?
