Chickenpox Vaccine

Chickenpox (also called varicella) is a common childhood disease. It is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young infants and adults. The Chickenpox virus can be spread from person to person through the air, or by contact with fluid from Chickenpox blisters. It causes a rash, itching, fever, and tiredness.

Most people who get the Chickenpox vaccine do not have any problems with it and don't get the disease. Getting the vaccine is actually much safer than getting the disease. Some mild problems which might occur are soreness or swelling at the injection site, fever, or a mild rash up to a month after vaccination.

People who are moderately or severely ill at the time the shot is scheduled should usually wait until they recover before getting the vaccine. Pregnant women should wait to get the Chickenpox vaccine until after they have given birth. Women should not get pregnant for one month after getting the vaccine.