Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine
This page was reviewed or revised on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 9:45 AM
Environmental Health & Prevention Services
The chickenpox vaccine is FREE for eligible people. For information, call County of Lambton Community Health Services Department at 519 383-8331 or toll free 1-800-667-1839.
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is a common disease among kids.
The infection usually begins with a fever and flu-like symptoms. It is followed by a rash in 1-2 days.
The red, itchy rash, with spots that look like blisters, can appear all over the body. Blisters last 3-4 days, and then scabbed over.
The infection is contagious for five (5) days before the first spots appear, and five (5) days after the onset of the rash.
Some cases are very mild with few spots. They may not be aware they had chickenpox. Adults and very young infants may have complications, such as skin infections, pneumonia, or encephalitis.
Most people get chickenpox as a child and develop life-long protection from it.
When is the vaccine given?
Please contact Community Health Services Department to discuss your child's vaccine schedule. Space between doses is done on a case-by-case basis.
Who should NOT get this vaccine?
• Anyone with immune system problems
• Anyone who is pregnant
• Anyone allergic to any part of the vaccine
• Anyone who had a live vaccine within the last month (i.e. MMR)
What are the side effects?
• Slight fever
• Soreness at the injection site
• Chickenpox-like spots, near the injection site, or on other parts of the body
• About 10% of children will develop chickenpox; the disease is usually milder
Severe reactions are rare. However, you should wait 15 minutes after your injection before leaving.
Report any severe reaction to your health care provider or to Community Health Services Department.
Related Link (on this website)
Downloads:
- FACT_SHEET_Chickenpox_Vaccine.09.2011.pdf [ 46.2 KB ]
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