Chicken Pox Vaccine
Chicken Pox is one of the vaccines we offer at Chappells Pharmacy. As a local and established travel clinic in Crowborough you can trust we will deliver exceptional service.
Chicken Pox Vaccine at Chappells Pharmacy
Protect yourself and your family against Chicken Pox (Varicella), a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy, blister-like rash. Chappells Pharmacy offers professional Varicella vaccination services to ensure your peace of mind, whether you’re looking to protect your children or yourself from this uncomfortable and potentially serious condition.
What is Chicken Pox?
Chicken Pox (Varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The disease typically results in an itchy, blister-like rash that can cover the entire body, along with fever and general discomfort. The virus is spread through:
- Direct contact with the rash or fluid from the blisters
- Airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- Close contact with someone who has chicken pox
- Contact with contaminated objects
Chicken pox typically begins with cold-like symptoms followed by a characteristic rash that progresses from red bumps to fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, and loss of appetite. While chicken pox is often mild in children, it can cause serious complications in adults, pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Although cases in the UK have decreased since the introduction of the vaccine, chicken pox remains common, particularly in children. The disease is highly contagious, with a single infected person able to infect up to 90% of non-immune individuals they come into close contact with.
The Varicella (Chicken Pox) vaccine is recommended for:
- Children aged 1-12 who haven’t had chicken pox
- Teenagers and adults who have never had chicken pox
- Healthcare workers who have no immunity to chicken pox
- Those in close contact with people who have weakened immune systems
- People with certain skin conditions (e.g., eczema) who haven’t had chicken pox
- Women planning pregnancy who haven’t had chicken pox
- Family members of immunocompromised individuals
- Travellers to countries where vaccination is routine
- Anyone who wishes to be protected against the disease
Why Choose Chappells Pharmacy?
Trusted Experts
Our pharmacists are fully trained and experienced in vaccine administration, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care throughout your vaccination journey.
Affordable Prices
We believe in offering top-quality healthcare without breaking the bank. Our vaccination services are priced to be accessible for everyone.
Comprehensive Care
We provide full consultations before vaccination, answering all your questions and ensuring the vaccine is appropriate for your specific circumstances.
Vaccine Administration and Schedule
The Varicella vaccine for Chicken Pox is administered as:
A single dose provides good protection, but two doses are recommended for complete immunity. For children, the first dose is typically given at 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years, though the vaccine can be administered to older children and adults who haven’t had chicken pox.
Side Effects and Safety
The Varicella vaccine is considered safe and effective, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Common reactions may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Development of a mild rash (up to 26 blisters) at the injection site or elsewhere
- Mild fever
- Tiredness
- Swelling of glands in the armpit
Severe side effects are extremely rare. Our pharmacists are available to answer any questions or concerns about vaccine safety.
How to Book Your Appointment
Whether you’re seeking protection for your children or yourself, we can help:
Booking your Varicella vaccination at Chappells Pharmacy is easy:
- Visit us in-store
- Contact us by phone or email
- Arrange your preferred appointment time online
Protect yourself today—your health and wellbeing matter to us at Chappells Pharmacy.
FAQs About Chicken Pox Vaccine
There are many questions about the Chicken Pox vaccine, we have selected frequently asked questions about this service. If you do not see your answer, please contact us.
How effective is the Chicken Pox vaccine?
rare cases where vaccinated individuals do contract chicken pox, symptoms are typically much milder
than in unvaccinated individuals.
Can adults get the Chicken Pox vaccine?
more severe in adults than in children, with higher risk of complications. The vaccine is administered in two
doses, 4-8 weeks apart, for adults with no history of the disease or previous vaccination.
Is the vaccine safe for pregnant women?
should avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after receiving the vaccine. If you're planning a
pregnancy and haven't had chicken pox, it's ideal to get vaccinated before conceiving. Pregnant women
who have never had chicken pox should discuss their options with a healthcare provider.
Can I receive the vaccine if I've already had Chicken Pox?
However, if you're unsure whether you've had the disease, a blood test can check for immunity. There's no
harm in receiving the vaccine even if you've had chicken pox, but it's typically unnecessary. For those over
50 who have had chicken pox, the shingles vaccine may be recommended instead to prevent reactivation
of the virus.
