Chickenpox Vaccine
Chickenpox Vaccine at Our Pharmacy
The chickenpox vaccine offers effective protection against chickenpox, a common and highly contagious illness. Although chickenpox is usually mild, it can sometimes lead to complications, especially in adults, pregnant women, babies, and those with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is a safe and reliable way to reduce your risk of catching chickenpox and to help prevent the spread of the virus to others. You can conveniently access the chickenpox vaccine at our pharmacy, with expert advice and support from our pharmacist.
Book your appointment now to stay protected against chickenpox.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Chickenpox Vaccine For?
The chickenpox vaccine is designed to prevent chickenpox, which is usually mild but can be serious for certain groups, including:
- Pregnant women
- Babies
- People with weakened immune systems
The vaccine is recommended for those who are more likely to become seriously unwell from chickenpox or who are in close contact with vulnerable individuals.
Who Should Have the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The chickenpox vaccine is recommended if you are healthy and:
- Aged 9 months or over
- Have never had chickenpox
- Are in regular or close contact with someone at risk of severe illness from chickenpox, such as a child with leukaemia or an adult receiving chemotherapy
You should also consider the chickenpox vaccine if you have not had chickenpox and your work involves close contact with patients, including:
- Pharmacists and pharmacy staff
- Ambulance staff
- GP surgery and hospital receptionists
- Hospital ward cleaners
- Catering staff
- Laboratory workers exposed to the chickenpox virus
If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox before, a blood test may be needed to check.
Who Should Not Have the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Most people who need the vaccine can have it, but as it is a live vaccine (containing a weakened form of the virus), it is not suitable for everyone.
You should not have the chickenpox vaccine if you:
- Have a weakened immune system due to illness (such as HIV) or treatments like chemotherapy
- Are pregnant
- Are a baby under 9 months old
- Have had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or to an ingredient in the vaccine, including neomycin or gelatin
- Have had the MMR vaccine in the last 4 weeks or are due to have it within the next 4 weeks
If you have received the chickenpox vaccine, you should avoid becoming pregnant for one month after your final dose.
How is the Chickenpox Vaccine Given?
The vaccine is given as an injection, usually into the upper arm. You will need two doses, given 4 to 8 weeks apart.
How Well Does the Chickenpox Vaccine Work and How Long Does It Last?
After two doses, the chickenpox vaccine provides about 98% protection in children and around 75% protection in adults. Booster doses are not required. If you do catch chickenpox after being vaccinated, your symptoms are likely to be much milder than if you had not been vaccinated.
Prices
| Service | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | 2 doses • Lasts 20+ years | Junior: £65 Adult: £65 |
| Hepatitis B | 3 doses • Check immunity in 5 years | Junior: £38 Adult: £60 |
| Hepatitis A + B (Combined) | 3 doses • Check Hep B immunity in 5 years | Junior: £70 Adult: £85 |
| Hepatitis A + Typhoid | Typhoid: 3 yrs • Hep A booster at 6–12 months | £99 per dose |
| Typhoid | Lasts 3 years | Injection: £40 Oral: £40 |
| Malaria – Atovaquone/Proguanil | Daily from 2 days before to 7 days after return | Adult: £2.50 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Paediatric | Same schedule as above | Junior: £2.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Adult | Same schedule as above | Adult: £4.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Doxycycline | Start 1–2 days before and 4 weeks after return | £0.70 per capsule |
| Malaria – Chloroquine | Weekly from 1 week before to 4 weeks after | £0.80 per tablet |
| Malaria – Mefloquine | Weekly from 2–3 weeks before to 4 weeks after | £5.00 per tablet |
| Cholera | 2-dose pack | £67.00 |
| Rabies (Per Dose) | Standard single dose | £99.00 |
| Rabies (Full Course) | 3 doses • Booster after 2–3 yrs if needed | £297.00 |
| Meningitis ACWY | Lasts 5 years | £65 |
| Tick-Borne Encephalitis | 3 doses • Booster every 3–5 years | Adult: £75 Child: £75 |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Standard course | £95.00 |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio Booster | Lasts 10 years | £43.00 |
Book Your Chickenpox Vaccination
If you would like to protect yourself or someone close to you from chickenpox, book your vaccination with our pharmacist. Our pharmacy team is here to offer advice and answer any questions you may have. Book your appointment now for expert travel health advice and to stay protected against chickenpox.
