Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which causes fever and an itchy rash. The rash typically consists of 200–500 blister-like lesions usually on the face, scalp, and trunk.

Chickenpox can be spread from an infected person who sneezes, coughs, or shares food or drink, even before the infected person has any symptoms. Adolescents and adults who contract chickenpox are more at risk of severe symptoms than young children. Most people will get chickenpox at some point in their lives unless they’ve received the vaccine.

The chickenpox vaccine is a 2-dose series that can protect nearly everyone from getting chickenpox. The first dose should be given between ages 12–18 months. The second dose should be given between ages 4–6.

Older children and adults should get two shots as well, with the second shot given at least 28 days after the first shot.

The chickenpox vaccine is recommended for all children and adults who have not been vaccinated against chickenpox or have not had chickenpox. People who have had chickenpox do not need to get the vaccine, since a person is unlikely to get chickenpox twice.

• • People with moderate or severe illness, until symptoms improve
• • Pregnant woman should wait to get the chickenpox vaccine until after they’ve given birth, and people who plan to become pregnant should wait 1+ months after getting the chickenpox vaccine before trying to conceive
• • People with an allergy or hypersensitivity to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin
• • People who previously had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to the vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine

People should consult their healthcare provider about whether they should get the chickenpox vaccine if they:

• • Have HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system
• • Are being treated with steroids for 2+ weeks
• • Have cancer or are receiving cancer treatment
• • Have active, untreated tuberculosis
• • Recently received a blood transfusion

Mild-to-moderate side effects:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Mild rash

• Mild-to-moderate fever

Severe side effects, although rare, may include serious allergic reactions. Symptoms include:

• Seizure caused by fever

• Pneumonia

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezing

• Hives

• Paleness

• Fast heartbeat

• Dizziness

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease pain and reduce fever. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any unexpected or worsening reactions after receiving a vaccine.