Varicella Vaccine

Service Description

Chickenpox (also called varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection. It is usually a mild disease that doesn’t last long in children. It can be more severe in adults, pregnant women and people who are immunocompromised. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends chickenpox vaccination for specific groups including: - Children aged 12 months to under 4 years - Adolescents 14 years and over - Adults who have not received 2 doses of the chickenpox-containing vaccine, particularly healthcare workers - Childhood educators and carers - People who work in long-term care facilities. Chickenpox combination vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for children at 18 months. Eligible people under 20 years old and refugees and other humanitarian entrants of any age can get a free catch-up vaccination. This is if they did not receive the vaccines in childhood and it is recommended to receive the vaccine. The vaccine contains a small amount of live virus. Some people may not be able to have a live vaccine for medical reasons. Chickenpox vaccines should not be given to: - Pregnant women - People who have had anaphylaxis after a previous dose of any chickenpox vaccine or anaphylaxis after any component of a chickenpox vaccine - People who are immunocompromised.