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Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is another word for a highly contagious preventable virus scientists call varicella. It spreads through close contact with infected individuals and notably causes people to develop a rash and blisters that eventually become scabs. People with the virus can have as many as 500 blisters across their body, and most people will recover after about a week.

Not all cases are mild, though, and chickenpox can lead to hospitalization. It is especially serious for pregnant women, infants less than a year old, and people with weakened immune systems. Getting vaccinated is important because (in addition to protecting you) it also protects people who can't be vaccinated and are at higher risk of hospitalization.


How does the Chickenpox Vaccine protect Southwest Florida?

The chickenpox vaccine is safe, effective, and protects SWFL from the virus. According to the CDC, two doses are about 90% effective at preventing chickenpox. Because of this, chickenpox cases have dropped over 97% since the start of the chickenpox vaccination program in the US. 

Chickenpox Vaccine FAQ

Unless told otherwise by a healthcare provider, everyone should get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine.

People older than 13 should get two doses that are spaced at least 28 days apart.

The recommended spacing for people under 13 is as follows:

  • 12-15 months old - Dose #1
  • 4-6 years old - Dose #2

Most folks who get the chickenpox vaccine don't have any side effects. The few that do have mild side effects and can include:

  • Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Fever
  • Mild rash

It's important to remember that even if you have mild side effects, the chickenpox vaccine is safe, works well, and offers long-lasting protection against infections!

Clinical pharmacists are available to answer your vaccine questions on Lee Health's MyChart portal.

If you don't have a MyChart account, signing up is quick and easy!

The information on this page was last verified in August of 2024.

For the latest updates on the Chickenpox Vaccine, check out the CDC's website on Vaccines and Preventable Diseases.

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Protect yourself from preventable diseases!