Chickenpox is dismissed as a childhood inconvenience. In adults the illness is markedly more severe, with higher rates of pneumonia, encephalitis and hospitalisation. The same virus also causes shingles decades later (see our shingles post).
Who should think about it
- Anyone who has never had chickenpox or the vaccine.
- Healthcare workers, teachers, childcare workers.
- People living with or planning a pregnancy (the vaccine is not given during pregnancy, ideally completed before).
- Adults newly arrived in Australia who weren’t vaccinated.
Serology first?
Many people who think they never had chickenpox actually had it, and many who think they did, didn’t. A simple blood test for varicella IgG antibodies can confirm immunity in 30 minutes. Many GPs recommend serology before vaccinating adults to avoid unnecessary doses.
The schedule
Two doses, at least 4 weeks apart. Lifelong protection in around 95% of people.
Pregnancy and immunocompromise
The chickenpox vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine. It isn’t given during pregnancy or to people with significant immunocompromise. Pre-vaccination screening will pick up these contraindications.
Sources & further reading
General information only. This article is educational and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Your immuniser will confirm eligibility and contraindications on the day.
TGA advertising compliance. Vaccines are referred to by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Specific brands and registered indications are discussed at the consultation.