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Chickenpox Vaccine: What You Need to Know

Learn about the chickenpox vaccine — when to give it, how many doses are needed, who should not get it, insurance coverage and how to protect your child safely

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

Dr. S. Ali

8/30/20254 min read

Remember when chickenpox was almost a childhood “rite of passage”? Red itchy spots, missed school days, and oatmeal baths were practically the norm. Thankfully, with the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine, that’s no longer the case for most kids and adults today. Let’s dive into what this vaccine is all about — and why it matters.

What Is Chickenpox, Anyway?

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. For most kids, it shows up as an itchy rash, fever, and fatigue. While it’s usually mild, chickenpox can cause serious complications like skin infections, pneumonia, or even brain inflammation in rare cases. And here’s something many people don’t realize: once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in your body and can come back later as shingles.

The Chickenpox Vaccine: A Game-Changer

The chickenpox vaccine (also called the varicella vaccine) was first introduced in the 1990s. Since then, chickenpox cases have dropped by more than 90% in countries where vaccination is common.

In many countries, including the US, the vaccine is given as two doses:

  • First dose: 12–15 months of age

  • Second dose: 4–6 years of age

Adults who never had chickenpox (or the vaccine) can also get vaccinated — and should, especially if they work around kids, are healthcare workers, or are planning pregnancy.

How Effective is the Vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is highly effective at preventing severe disease. The standard two-dose schedule provides strong, long-lasting protection.

  • After 1 dose: About 85% effective at preventing any chickenpox.

  • After 2 doses: Over 90% effective at preventing the disease entirely.

For the small percentage of vaccinated people who still get chickenpox (known as "breakthrough chickenpox"), the infection is almost always extremely mild. They experience fewer pox, a lower fever, and a much faster recovery, significantly reducing the risk of serious complications.

In short, the vaccine doesn't just prevent chickenpox—it most effectively prevents severe chickenpox.

Why You Should Consider Getting the Vaccine

Here’s what makes the chickenpox vaccine such a smart choice:

  • Prevents illness – No itchy rash, fever, or risk of complications.

  • Protects others – Reduces the spread, especially to babies, pregnant women, or people with weak immune systems.

  • Prevents shingles later in life – Vaccinated people are far less likely to develop shingles.

  • Less missed school or work – No week-long sick leave for kids or parents.

Who Should Not Get the Vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is safe for most people, but it is not recommended for certain groups due to the use of a live, weakened virus. The following individuals should not get the vaccine:

  • People with Severe Allergies: Anyone who has had a life-threatening allergic reaction to a previous dose of the chickenpox vaccine or any of its components, including gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin.

  • Pregnant Women: The vaccine should not be administered to pregnant individuals due to theoretical risks to the fetus. Women should avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after vaccination.

  • The Immunocompromised: People with significantly weakened immune systems (e.g., from cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS, or medical drugs like steroids or chemotherapy) should not receive the vaccine.

  • Those Getting Blood Products: Vaccination should be postponed for several months after receiving a blood transfusion or other blood products (like plasma), as these can prevent the vaccine from working effectively.

  • People with Untreated Active TB: Individuals with untreated tuberculosis should not get the chickenpox vaccine.

Always consult a healthcare provider to evaluate your specific health situation before receiving any vaccine.

Safety and Side Effects

Like most vaccines, the chickenpox shot is generally safe. Common side effects are mild — a sore arm, low fever, or a few small blisters at the injection site. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination

Some parents still wonder: “Isn’t it better for kids to get chickenpox naturally?”

Natural infection carries the risk of severe complications, and there’s no way to predict who will get seriously sick. The vaccine gives strong, long-lasting protection — without the gamble.

Is chicken pox vaccine covered by insurance?

In the United States, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is covered by health insurance because it’s part of the routine childhood immunization schedule recommended by the CDC and mandated under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This means most private insurance plans must cover it at no cost when given by an in-network provider.

For children without insurance, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides the vaccine free of charge.

Outside the U.S., coverage depends on the country. Some national health systems (like in the UK) do not offer routine varicella vaccination for all children, while others include it in their standard immunization schedules.

What do I have to do if I want to get chicken pox vaccine for my child?

If you’d like your child to get the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Check your child’s age

    • The first dose is usually given at 12–15 months.

    • The second dose is given at 4–6 years.

    • If your child is older and hasn’t been vaccinated or had chickenpox, they can still get the vaccine (usually two doses at least 3 months apart for children under 13, or 4 weeks apart for those 13 and older).

  2. Talk to your child’s doctor or pediatrician

    • Confirm whether your child has already had chickenpox or been vaccinated.

    • Discuss any health conditions, allergies, or immune system issues that might affect vaccination.

  3. Schedule the appointment

    • The vaccine is often available at pediatric clinics, family doctors, or vaccination centers.

  4. Check coverage and cost

    • In many countries (including the U.S.), the vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule and is covered by insurance or provided free in government programs.

    • If you are in another country, you would need to check with your local health center or hospital, as vaccine availability and cost may vary.

  5. After vaccination

    • Your child might have mild side effects like soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or a small rash. These usually go away on their own.

Final Thoughts

The chickenpox vaccine has turned a once-common childhood illness into a largely preventable one. If you or your child haven’t had it yet, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated. It’s a simple step that protects you now — and your future self from shingles down the road.

Related Articles: 
1. Vaccines: What They Are and Why They Matter to You

Sources:

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