Chickenpox Vaccination

The chickenpox vaccine is recommended in many countries worldwide, particularly in regions with established childhood immunisation programs. Some of the countries where the chickenpox vaccine is commonly recommended include:

• United States

• Canada

• United Kingdom

• Australia

• New Zealand

• European countries

• Japan

• South Korea

• China

These countries typically include the chickenpox vaccine as part of routine childhood immunization schedules, usually administered in early childhood.

Children
The chickenpox vaccine is recommended for children as part of routine immunisation schedules. It is typically administered in two doses: the first dose at around 12-15 months of age and the second dose at 4-6 years of age.

Unvaccinated Individuals
Individuals who have not had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine should consider vaccination to prevent infection and reduce the risk of complications, especially if they are at increased risk of exposure.

Adults
Adults who have not had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it may also benefit from vaccination, particularly if they are at risk of exposure due to close contact with children or working in healthcare or childcare settings.

Risk of Chickenpox
Without vaccination, individuals remain susceptible to chickenpox, a highly contagious infection characterised by fever, rash, and itching. While chickenpox is typically mild in healthy children, it can cause more severe symptoms and complications in adolescents, adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Complications
Chickenpox can lead to complications such as bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death, particularly in high-risk groups.

Missed School or Work
Chickenpox infection can result in missed school or work days, disrupting daily activities and routines for both children and adults.

First Dose
The first dose of the chickenpox vaccine is usually given at around 12-15 months of age.

Second Dose
The second dose is administered at 4-6 years of age, before starting school. This second dose helps ensure long-lasting immunity and further boosts protection against chickenpox.

For unvaccinated individuals, catch-up vaccination may be recommended, consisting of two doses administered at least 4-8 weeks apart, depending on age and vaccination history.