Chicken Pox Vaccinations

We are offering this to patients between 12 months and 12 years old at our practice as a private service. 

Two vaccinations are needed and the price is £145.00 for both.

Ask at the Practice for more information and to book!

What are the symptoms of chickenpox?

The main symptom of chickenpox is a rash of small, itchy red spots that fill with fluid, then dry out and fall off. The rash can show up anywhere on the body.

Symptoms often start with a mild fever or headache and tend to appear 1-3 weeks after infection. Adults can experience flu-like symptoms.

What should I do if I have chickenpox?

Chickenpox usually gets better within 2 weeks with no need to see a GP. If you have chickenpox, you should stay away from nursery, school or work until all the spots have scabbed over. This usually happens about 5 days after the spots first appeared.

You should try to drink plenty of fluids to ensure you don’t become dehydrated, and you can take paracetamol if you’re in pain or discomfort. You can also try using a cooling gel or cream, and wear loose clothing. Avoid scratching the spots as this can cause scarring, and make sure you pat the skin dry after bathing.

Who is at risk from chickenpox?

Chickenpox is most common in children in the UK. Even though it is usually mild, and complications are rare, it is important to keep your child at home until the blisters have scabbed over.

While children develop immunity once they have had chickenpox, it can be more severe in adults who have not had the virus.

Other people who are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from chickenpox include pregnant women, newborn babies, and those with a weakened immune system, such as those with illnesses like HIV and people undergoing chemotherapy.

Who should have the chickenpox vaccine?

There are 2 chickenpox vaccines available. These are called VARIVAX and VARILRIX.

The chickenpox vaccination is not routinely provided on the NHS, unless you are eligible. However, you can choose to book a private chickenpox vaccine service with Grosvenor and St James Medical Practice if your child is a patient at the practice.

This vaccine is available for anyone between the ages of 12 months and 12 years. It is not suitable to be provided if the child has previously had chicken pox. (The chickenpox vaccine is not suitable for pregnant women, anyone with a weakened immune system or for children who have had the MMR vaccine in the last month).

If you are looking to protect your child from chickenpox, speak to us today about our chickenpox vaccine service. 

How does the chickenpox vaccine work?

The chickenpox vaccine is a live vaccine. This means it contains a small, weakened amount of the virus that causes chickenpox.

The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to start producing antibodies that help protect you against chickenpox.

How is the chickenpox vaccine given?

The chickenpox vaccine is given as 2 injections which are usually administered into the upper arm. The injections are given 4 to 8 weeks apart.

How effective is the chickenpox vaccine?

According to the NHS, 9 out of 10 children who receive the chickenpox vaccine with a single dose will go on to develop long-term immunity against the virus. A second dose of the vaccine is recommended to give an increased immune response. After childhood, the effectiveness of the chickenpox vaccine is reduced.

How long does it take for the chickenpox vaccine to be effective?

The chickenpox vaccine can take a few weeks to become effective. This is because it can take the body some time to produce an adequate amount of antibodies in order to fight the virus.

What happens at my chickenpox vaccine appointment?

Choosing to book your chickenpox vaccine at our practice is quick and easy.

1. Contact the practice, pay the fee and book your first appointment.
2. Receive the first dose of the chickenpox vaccine (unless not suitable – when you would be refunded).
3. Return for a second dose of the chickenpox vaccine at least 6 weeks later.

Are there any side effects to the vaccination?

Whilst the chickenpox vaccination shouldn’t cause too much discomfort, there can be some soreness and redness around the area of the injection and a mild rash. It is possible to develop a fever (high temperature over 37.5°C), so it’s a good idea to check your, or your child’s, temperature regularly with a thermometer.

You may want to use age-appropriate paracetamol if needed. It is also recommended to avoid contact with anyone who is at risk during the 6 weeks in between the vaccinations.

Published: Apr 14, 2025