What are the symptoms of chickenpox?
The main symptom of chickenpox is a rash of small, itchy red spots that fill with fluid, then dry out and fall off. The rash can show up anywhere on the body.
Symptoms often start with a mild fever or headache and tend to appear 1-3 weeks after infection. Adults can experience flu-like symptoms.
What should I do if I have chickenpox?
Chickenpox usually gets better within 2 weeks with no need to see a GP. If you have chickenpox, you should stay away from nursery, school or work until all the spots have scabbed over. This usually happens about 5 days after the spots first appeared.
You should try to drink plenty of fluids to ensure you don’t become dehydrated, and you can take paracetamol if you’re in pain or discomfort. You can also try using a cooling gel or cream, and wear loose clothing. Avoid scratching the spots as this can cause scarring, and make sure you pat the skin dry after bathing.
Who is at risk from chickenpox?
Chickenpox is most common in children in the UK. Even though it is usually mild, and complications are rare, it is important to keep your child at home until the blisters have scabbed over.
While children develop immunity once they have had chickenpox, it can be more severe in adults who have not had the virus.
Other people who are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from chickenpox include pregnant women, newborn babies, and those with a weakened immune system, such as those with illnesses like HIV and people undergoing chemotherapy.
Who should have the chickenpox vaccine?
There are 2 chickenpox vaccines available. These are called VARIVAX and VARILRIX.
The chickenpox vaccination is not routinely provided on the NHS unless you are eligible. You may qualify for the chickenpox vaccine via the NHS if you have a weakened immune system, or if you are at a higher risk of becoming seriously unwell if you were to catch the virus. Some healthcare workers are also eligible.
However, you can choose to book a private chickenpox vaccine service with Day Lewis. This vaccine is available for anyone between the ages 1 and 65.
The chickenpox vaccine is not suitable for pregnant women, anyone with a weakened immune system or if you have had the MMR vaccine in the last month.
If you are looking to protect yourself or your child from chickenpox, speak to us today about our chickenpox vaccine service. You will need to have a short consultation with one of our Day Lewis pharmacists to check suitability.
How does the chickenpox vaccine work?
The chickenpox vaccine is a live vaccine. This means it contains a small, weakened amount of the virus that causes chickenpox.
The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to start producing antibodies that help protect you against chickenpox.
How is the chickenpox vaccine given?
The chickenpox vaccine is given as 2 injections which are usually administered into the upper arm. The injections are given 4 to 8 weeks apart.
How effective is the chickenpox vaccine?
According to the NHS, 9 out of 10 children who receive the chickenpox vaccine with a single dose will go on to develop long-term immunity against the virus. A second dose of the vaccine is recommended to give an increased immune response. After childhood, the effectiveness of the chickenpox vaccine is reduced.
How long does it take for the chickenpox vaccine to be effective?
The chickenpox vaccine can take a few weeks to become effective. This is because it can take the body some time to produce an adequate amount of antibodies in order to fight the virus.
Where can I get the chickenpox vaccination near me?
Speak to your GP surgery to find out if you are eligible for the chickenpox vaccine. Alternatively, you can book your chickenpox vaccine with Day Lewis Pharmacy.
What happens at my chickenpox vaccine appointment?
Choosing to book your chickenpox vaccine at our pharmacy is quick and easy.
- Visit your local Day Lewis Pharmacy
- Receive the first dose of the chickenpox vaccine (if suitable) after a pharmacist consultation
- Return for a second dose of the chickenpox vaccine at least 6 weeks later
Are there any side effects to the vaccination?
Whilst the chickenpox vaccination shouldn’t cause too much discomfort, there can be some soreness and redness around the area of the injection and a mild rash. It is possible to develop a fever (high temperature over 37.5°C), so it’s a good idea to check your, or your child’s, temperature regularly with a thermometer. You may want to use age-appropriate paracetamol if needed. It is also recommended to avoid contact with anyone who is at risk during the 6 weeks in between the vaccinations.
What is the Chicken Pox vaccine for?
The chickenpox vaccine helps protect against chickenpox, a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella zoster virus. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with someone who has the virus.
The vaccine is especially recommended for individuals at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract chickenpox. It is also advised for healthy individuals aged 9 months or older who have never had chickenpox and are in close or regular contact with vulnerable people, such as children with leukaemia or adults undergoing chemotherapy.
Additionally, the vaccine is recommended for people who have not had chickenpox and work in healthcare or similar settings involving direct patient contact, including doctors and nurses.
Who shouldn’t have the chickenpox vaccine?
While the chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective for most people, it isn’t suitable for everyone. As it’s a live vaccine containing a weakened form of the virus, it is not recommended for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or living with HIV, as well as for pregnant women and babies under 9 months old.
It should also be avoided by anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any of the vaccine’s ingredients.
If you’ve received the chickenpox vaccine, you should avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after your final dose.
Should you get vaccinated if you’re unwell?
If you’re feeling very unwell or have a high temperature, it’s best to wait until you’re better before having the vaccine. If it’s just a mild illness, like a cold with no high temperature, you can usually still go ahead, but check with your healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
Can I have the Chicken Pox vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
Yes, in most cases you can have the chickenpox vaccine alongside other vaccines.
It can also be given at the same time as the MMR vaccine. However, if this does not happen, then you will need to wait at least 4 weeks between the two.
If you’re unsure, your GP or pharmacist can advise on the best timing based on your vaccine history.
How long does the Chicken Pox vaccine last?
After two doses, the chickenpox vaccine offers long-lasting protection at around 98% in children and 75% in adults. You don’t need any further booster doses.
If you do catch chickenpox after being vaccinated, it’s usually a much milder illness than it would be without the vaccine.
Is the chickenpox vaccine available on the NHS?
The chickenpox vaccine is not currently part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule in the UK. However, it is available on the NHS for specific groups, such as individuals who are in close contact with someone who has a weakened immune system, for example, a child whose parent is undergoing chemotherapy, and healthcare or laboratory workers who may be exposed to the virus.
For those who do not qualify for the NHS vaccine, Day Lewis offers a private chickenpox vaccination service. This service is available to anyone aged between 1 and 65 years, providing convenient access to protection against chickenpox.
Can I have the chickenpox vaccine if I already have chickenpox?
No, you cannot have the chickenpox vaccine if you currently have chickenpox, as the vaccine is intended to prevent the illness — not treat it.
If you’ve already had chickenpox in the past, you typically won’t need the vaccine, as most people develop lifelong immunity after infection.
If you’re unsure whether you have had chickenpox before, it’s still safe to receive the vaccine, and it may offer protection in case you haven’t previously been exposed.
Is the chickenpox vaccine safe?
Yes – the chickenpox vaccine is safe and has been used millions of times around the world. It is effective at protecting against chickenpox, and most people experience only mild side effects.
Common side effects include redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, a mild fever, and occasionally a mild rash either near the injection site or more generally on the body.
If you’re concerned about any side effects, speak to a healthcare professional for advice and reassurance.
What to do if you have active chicken pox?
Chickenpox usually gets better within 2 weeks with no need to see a GP. If you have chickenpox, you should stay away from nursery, school or work until all the spots have scabbed over. This usually happens about 5 days after the spots first appeared.
You should try to drink plenty of fluids to ensure you don’t become dehydrated, and you can take paracetamol if you’re in pain or discomfort. You can also try using a cooling gel or cream, and wear loose clothing. Avoid scratching the spots as this can cause scarring, and make sure you pat the skin dry after bathing.
If you’re interested in having the chickenpox vaccine, speak to your Day Lewis Pharmacy today. Find your your local Day Lewis Pharmacy here.
