Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine
A two-dose vaccine that helps protect against chickenpox infection.
What is the Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine?
The varicella vaccine helps protect against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease that causes an itchy rash, fever, and can lead to serious complications in adults and immunocompromised individuals. Two doses provide about 98% protection against severe chickenpox.
Ages
12 months and older
Doses
2 doses
Schedule
Chickenpox
About the Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine
The varicella vaccine helps protect against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease that causes an itchy rash, fever, and can lead to serious complications in adults and immunocompromised individuals. Two doses provide about 98% protection against severe chickenpox.
Who should get this vaccine?
- Children at 12 to 15 months for the first dose and 4 to 6 years for the second dose
- Older children and adolescents who missed their doses
- Adults without evidence of immunity, including those without a history of chickenpox or vaccination
- Healthcare workers without evidence of immunity
Side effects & contraindications
Common side effects
- Soreness or swelling at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Mild rash, including a few spots near the injection site or elsewhere
A mild vaccine-related rash may appear 1 to 3 weeks after vaccination. This is generally not contagious unless the spots are blistered.
Rare side effects
- Febrile seizures
- Pneumonia
- Severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis
Who should NOT get this vaccine
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of varicella vaccine or any component, including neomycin or gelatin
- Pregnancy, and people should wait at least 4 weeks after vaccination before becoming pregnant
- Severely immunocompromised individuals
- People who are currently moderately or severely ill
- Recent blood transfusion or immunoglobulin, which may require waiting 3 to 11 months
Always inform your pharmacist of any allergies, medical conditions, or medications before receiving the Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine.
Dosing Schedule
The standard schedule includes two doses, with the first at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. For unvaccinated teens and adults, two doses are given at least 28 days apart. Availability may vary by location.
Forms & Documents
Vaccine consent forms and Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) are provided before vaccination. Availability may vary by location.
After your vaccination
Aftercare tips
- Apply a cool compress to the injection site if it feels sore
- Move your arm throughout the day to help reduce stiffness
- Stay hydrated and rest if you feel fatigued
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed
- Visit our contact page if you experience symptoms lasting more than 3 days or have any severe symptoms
Cost & coverage
Coverage varies by vaccine and insurance plan, including Medicare Part D and many commercial plans when applicable. Our team can help verify your benefits during the scheduling process or at the time of your visit. For uninsured patients, ask about current self-pay pricing.
Contact us to verify your coverageVaricella (Chickenpox) FAQs
Common questions about the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.
Still have questions?
Contact usIf you had chickenpox, you are generally considered immune and do not need the vaccine. If you are unsure, a blood test can help check for immunity.
Ready to get vaccinated?
Scheduling and walk-in availability may vary by location. Please visit our contact page to confirm options for your preferred branch.
Call us
Contact Us
Phone
(951) 406-1521Office hours
Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Location
10465 Arlington Ave., Suite 300
Riverside, CA 92505
Need a refill? Call us or use the Quick Rx app for fast prescription refills.