Chickenpox is often dismissed as a mild childhood illness, but for some people it can lead to serious complications. The chickenpox injection, also known as the varicella vaccine, offers reliable protection for children and adults who have not previously had the infection. At King’s Pharmacy in Birmingham, our vaccination team can advise on whether the chickenpox vaccine is right for you or your child and arrange the injection quickly. Find out more about our Birmingham vaccination service or contact us today to book a consultation.
What Is the Chickenpox Injection and How Does It Work?
The chickenpox vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine containing a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus. When administered, it stimulates the immune system to produce a protective response against the virus without causing the disease itself. In clinical studies, two doses of the varicella vaccine provide protection in approximately 98% of recipients, and those who do develop chickenpox after vaccination typically experience a much milder illness than unvaccinated individuals.
The vaccine is given as an injection, usually into the upper arm or thigh. For children, two doses are recommended, with the first dose given from 12 months of age and the second dose given at least three months later. Adults who have never had chickenpox or been vaccinated also benefit from two doses, given four to eight weeks apart. The NHS provides information on the chickenpox vaccine, including who it is recommended for in the UK.
Who Should Get the Chickenpox Injection?
While the chickenpox vaccine is not currently part of the routine NHS childhood immunisation schedule in the UK, it is recommended for specific groups. The table below outlines who should consider getting vaccinated and why.
| Group | Why Vaccination Is Recommended | Number of Doses |
|---|---|---|
| Children aged 1 and over (no prior infection) | Prevention of chickenpox and its complications | 2 doses, at least 3 months apart |
| Adults who have never had chickenpox | Adults typically experience more severe illness than children | 2 doses, 4 to 8 weeks apart |
| Healthcare workers without immunity | Risk of transmitting to vulnerable patients | 2 doses |
| Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals | Protect those who cannot be vaccinated themselves | 2 doses |
| Women planning pregnancy who are not immune | Chickenpox in pregnancy can cause serious complications | 2 doses before conceiving |
Why Is the Chickenpox Injection Not on the NHS Routine Schedule?
The UK is one of the few developed countries that does not include the chickenpox vaccine in its routine childhood immunisation programme. The primary reason for this has historically been a concern that widespread childhood vaccination could lead to an increase in shingles in older adults, as natural exposure to chickenpox in children is thought to boost immunity against shingles reactivation in those who have previously had the virus. However, this position is reviewed periodically by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), and many clinicians and parents choose private vaccination in the meantime.
It is worth noting that the chickenpox and shingles viruses are closely related. If you or a family member are concerned about shingles risk, read our guide on the shingles vaccine in Birmingham for more information on how the two conditions are connected and what protection is available.
What to Expect When Getting the Chickenpox Injection at King’s Pharmacy
Booking and receiving the chickenpox vaccine at King’s Pharmacy is a straightforward process. Here is what to expect:
- 1. Initial consultation. Our vaccination team will check your or your child’s immunity status and medical history to confirm that the vaccine is appropriate and safe to administer.
- 2. First dose administration. The injection is given into the upper arm or, for young children, the thigh. The procedure takes just a few minutes.
- 3. Post-vaccination observation. You will be asked to wait briefly after the injection to ensure there is no immediate reaction.
- 4. Second dose scheduling. We will help you book the second dose at the appropriate interval to complete your course of protection.
- 5. Vaccination record. You will receive a record of your vaccination that you can keep for future reference, including for travel or employment purposes.
Chickenpox, Shingles, and the Importance of Lifelong Immunity
Once you have had chickenpox or received the vaccine, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in nerve tissue. In later life, particularly if immunity is weakened, the virus can reactivate as shingles, a painful rash condition. Vaccination helps to build a strong initial immune response that can reduce the severity of any future reactivation. For older adults or those with underlying health conditions, a separate shingles vaccine provides additional protection.
For more information on chickenpox vaccination in Birmingham and what is included in our vaccination service, visit our dedicated chickenpox vaccine Birmingham page.
Book Your Chickenpox Injection at King’s Pharmacy Birmingham
Do not wait for an outbreak to consider vaccination. Protecting yourself or your child against chickenpox is a straightforward decision that our team can help you make with confidence. Find out more about our Birmingham vaccination service or contact the King’s Pharmacy team today to book your appointment.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Chickenpox Injection
Is the chickenpox injection available for free on the NHS?
The chickenpox vaccine is not currently part of the routine NHS childhood immunisation schedule in the UK, meaning it is not available free of charge for most children or adults. It is offered on the NHS only in specific circumstances, such as for non-immune healthcare workers or close contacts of immunocompromised patients. For everyone else, the vaccine is available privately at King’s Pharmacy. Speak to our team for current pricing and availability.
How long does the chickenpox vaccine last?
Studies suggest that two doses of the chickenpox vaccine provide long-lasting protection, with immunity demonstrated in studies following recipients for over 20 years after vaccination. While it is not possible to guarantee lifelong protection, the evidence to date suggests that booster doses are not routinely required for most people. Our team can advise on your specific circumstances if you have concerns about waning immunity.
Can my child still get chickenpox after the injection?
It is possible, though uncommon. A small number of vaccinated individuals can still contract chickenpox if exposed to the virus, but the illness is typically much milder, with fewer spots, lower fever, and a faster recovery than in unvaccinated children. This is sometimes referred to as breakthrough varicella. Two doses significantly reduce this risk compared to one dose alone.
Are there any side effects from the chickenpox injection?
The chickenpox vaccine is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include mild soreness or redness at the injection site and occasionally a mild fever or rash within one to four weeks of vaccination. Serious side effects are rare. A very small number of vaccinated individuals may develop a mild chickenpox-like rash, which is generally not contagious but should be mentioned to a pharmacist or GP if it occurs.
Can adults get the chickenpox injection if they have never had chickenpox?
Yes. Adults who have no history of chickenpox and have not been vaccinated are strongly advised to consider the vaccine, as chickenpox in adults is typically more severe than in children and carries a higher risk of complications including pneumonia and encephalitis. Two doses are required for adults, given four to eight weeks apart. Our team at King’s Pharmacy can carry out a brief assessment and administer both doses at our Birmingham clinic.