About varicella virus vaccine
Live attenuated varicella vaccine
Used for
- Prevents chickenpox in people without immunity.
- May be used after exposure to reduce the risk or severity of chickenpox.
Usual adult dose
Two doses under the skin, usually 4–8 weeks apart; schedules vary by local guidance.
Usual dose in children
Two doses under the skin; timing depends on age and local immunization schedule.
Common side effects
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Mild chickenpox-like rash
- Rare severe allergic reaction
Important warnings
- Avoid during pregnancy and for one month after vaccination.
- Not for people with severe immune-system weakness; specialist guidance may apply.
- Avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing products for six weeks after vaccination in children and adolescents.
- Postpone during significant acute illness; mild illness may not require delay.
Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy. Avoid becoming pregnant for one month after vaccination; accidental vaccination is not generally a reason to end a pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Blood products or antibody-containing products can reduce vaccine response; timing may need adjustment.
- Avoid salicylates for six weeks after vaccination in children and adolescents.
- Other live vaccines may be given the same day or separated by at least four weeks.
- Antiviral medicines active against herpes viruses may reduce vaccine effectiveness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.