Important
The chickenpox vaccine must be given on the same day or 4 weeks apart from the MMR vaccine.
This is because the MMR vaccine causes an increased response to the chickenpox vaccine meaning that breakthrough infection with the chickenpox vaccine is more likely if the interval is not respected.
Countries At Risk
People who travel to places where the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is not routinely administered as part of standard childhood vaccination schedules are more likely to contract chickenpox. Because of its high contagiousness, chickenpox can cause more frequent outbreaks in populations with little immunity, particularly youngsters.
Travellers to South Asia and Southeast Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, and Syria, should be advised that chickenpox is still frequent due to inadequate vaccination coverage. Indonesia and the Philippines are two more Southeast Asian countries that see a high number of cases and outbreaks. If you have never had the infection or have not been vaccinated, you are more likely to contract it while travelling overseas. The varicella vaccine is advised for non-immune travellers, particularly adults, because the sickness can become more severe later in life.
Book a travel consultation with us to discuss your travel arrangements and what you should do to fully protect yourself before you go.
Travel Precautions
The Chickenpox vaccine is not specifically a travel-related vaccine but is commonly given to help children avoid contracting Chickenpox and its associated symptoms. While it is not currently part of the NHS vaccination schedule, it has become a routine childhood vaccine in other countries, such as the USA.
Signs & Symptoms
The classic symptom of Chickenpox is a widespread, itchy rash. It typically starts as red spots that fill with fluid and may sometimes burst. A high fever, along with aches and pains, is also common.
The Vaccination
The Chickenpox vaccine has been shown to reduce the likelihood of contracting Chickenpox, although it doesn't completely eliminate the risk. However, if a person develops Chickenpox after being vaccinated, the symptoms are typically much milder.
The vaccine consists of two doses given one month apart and can be administered starting at 1 year of age.
Our Bromley Travel Clinics
Conveniently located clinics in Bromley, South London.
