Private chickenpox vaccination for children from one year old and for adults who have never had it.
Chickenpox is usually mild in young children, but it is miserable while it lasts, and it can be serious in teenagers, adults, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system. The chickenpox vaccine is not part of the routine NHS schedule for most children, so Benson Pharmacy offers it privately.
Who it is for
- Children from 12 months of age
- Teenagers and adults who have never had chickenpox
- People in close contact with someone whose immune system is weakened, so they cannot pass it on
- Parents who would rather avoid two weeks off work and nursery
If you or your child has already had chickenpox, the vaccine is not needed. If you are not sure, the pharmacist can talk it through with you. The vaccine is not suitable during pregnancy, or for people with a weakened immune system.
The course
Two doses, four to eight weeks apart, give around 98% protection against chickenpox and almost complete protection against severe disease. We book the second dose at the end of the first appointment.
What happens at your appointment
We start with a short, private chat about health, medicines and allergies, then give the vaccine as an injection in the upper arm, or the thigh for small children. It is over in a moment.
Good to know
- A sore arm and a mild temperature are the most common side effects. A few people get a small number of spots a week or two later, which is normal
- Avoid aspirin for six weeks after the vaccine, and avoid pregnancy for one month
- Having had chickenpox, or the vaccine, does not protect against shingles later in life, which has its own vaccine
- Ask us for the price per dose
How to book
Book online at a time that suits you, call us on 01491 838686, or pop in and we will find a time with you. Appointments are in our private consultation room.