Childhood vaccine
Chickenpox Vaccine
The chickenpox vaccine protects against chickenpox (varicella). It is offered to certain groups on the NHS and available privately for others.
What it protects against
It protects against chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is usually mild in children but can be serious in babies, adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
Who it's for
On the NHS it is offered to people in close contact with those at high risk (such as some healthcare workers and household contacts of people with weakened immunity); it is also available privately for others.
How it works
It is a live but weakened form of the virus, given as two doses, which prompts the immune system to build protection.
Safety
Safety and side effects
It is safe and well tolerated. Common effects are soreness at the injection site and sometimes a mild rash. As a live vaccine, it is not given to people with a severely weakened immune system or during pregnancy.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Chickenpox Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Can I pay for the chickenpox vaccine for my child?
Yes. While it is only offered on the NHS to certain groups, it is available privately for children and adults who want it. Ask a pharmacy or private clinic for details.
Is the chickenpox vaccine part of the routine NHS childhood schedule?
Yes — this changed. Chickenpox (varicella) protection is now given as part of the combined MMRV vaccine on the routine NHS childhood schedule, rather than only privately. The NHS lists MMRV at 1 year and at 18 months for children born on or after 1 July 2024, and at 3 years 4 months for children born between 1 September 2022 and 31 December 2024. Older children and adults who missed it can still ask a pharmacy or private clinic. Check the NHS vaccination schedule for the dates that apply to your child.
Related
Other childhood vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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