Chickenpox Vaccine (Varivax)
Varivax, also known as the chickenpox vaccine, has been available in Canada since 1998. Approximately 97% of people vaccinated with varivax will have protection four to six weeks post vaccination.
Possible Side Effects
- Approximately 20% of people will experience pain and redness at the injection site within two days.
- Less than 5% of people will experience a mild form of chickenpox-like rash.
- Low-grade fever within a few days.
| Note: | Tylenol may be given to children < 16 years old, but not Aspirin as it has been linked to Reye’s Syndrome. |
Who Should Get This Vaccine?
Healthy persons aged one year and older who have not had chickenpox.
Who Should Not Get This Vaccine?
Anyone who:
- is sick with fever or infection (delay until well);
- has a history of allergies to any component (e.g. gelatin or neomycin) of the vaccine;
- has, or lives in a household with someone who has a disease that impairs the immune system (e.g. cancer, HIV or long-term systemic steroid therapy); or
is living with a woman who has not had chickenpox
disease and is pregnant, or may become pregnant within the next 42 days.