Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It usually causes an itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters, along with symptoms such as fever, tiredness and feeling generally unwell.

Although chickenpox is often mild in children, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications, especially in adults, pregnant women, babies and people with a weakened immune system.

If you or your child have not had chickenpox before, vaccination may help provide protection before travel, school, work, or contact with vulnerable people.

Chickenpox can spread very easily from person to person. It can be especially inconvenient if it happens before or during travel, as it may lead to cancelled plans, missed flights, isolation requirements or disruption to family holidays.

The chickenpox vaccine helps reduce the risk of catching chickenpox and may also make the illness milder if infection does occur after vaccination.

At Rusholme Pharmacy, our pharmacy team can advise whether the chickenpox vaccine is suitable for you or your child.

Chickenpox spreads easily through close contact with someone who has the infection.

You can catch chickenpox through:

• Coughs and sneezes from an infected person
• Close contact with chickenpox blisters
• Contact with fluid from the rash
• Being near someone who is infectious before the rash appears

A person with chickenpox can be infectious before the rash develops and usually remains infectious until the blisters have crusted over.

Chickenpox is usually a common childhood infection, but it can be more serious for certain people.

Those at higher risk may include:

• Adults and teenagers who have never had chickenpox
• Pregnant women who are not immune
• Babies and very young children
• People with a weakened immune system
• People living with or caring for someone vulnerable
• Healthcare workers or people working closely with vulnerable individuals

If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox before, our team can advise you on the next steps.

Chickenpox can cause problems when travelling, especially if symptoms develop shortly before departure or while abroad. Airlines, schools, workplaces or travel providers may have restrictions if someone is infectious.

The vaccine may be useful for travellers who have not had chickenpox before and want to reduce the risk of illness while away.

This may be particularly important if you are:

• Travelling with children
• Going abroad for a holiday
• Visiting family overseas
• Travelling for work or study
• Going on a long-term trip
• Visiting areas where healthcare access may be limited

The chickenpox vaccine is designed to help protect against chickenpox infection. It is usually given as an injection and is normally provided as a two-dose course.

The timing between doses can depend on age, vaccine type and clinical suitability. During your appointment, the Rusholme Pharmacy team will check your requirements and advise on the appropriate schedule.

The chickenpox vaccine may not be suitable for everyone. Before vaccination, our pharmacy team will ask a few health questions to make sure it is safe and appropriate.

Please tell us if you:

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Have a weakened immune system
• Are taking medication that affects your immune system
• Have had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine before
• Are currently unwell with a high temperature
• Have recently received another live vaccine
• Are unsure whether you have had chickenpox before

Our team will guide you based on your personal circumstances.

Rusholme Pharmacy provides a convenient and professional travel health service for the local community. Our team can help you understand which vaccinations may be suitable before travel and support you with clear, friendly advice.

• Convenient local pharmacy service in Rusholme
• Travel health advice tailored to your needs
• Support for adults and children, subject to suitability
• Professional and confidential consultation
• Clear vaccine schedule guidance
• Easy appointment booking

A preventable illness can quickly disrupt your travel plans. If you or your child have not had chickenpox before, speak to Rusholme Pharmacy about whether the chickenpox vaccination may be suitable.

Book your appointment today and travel with greater confidence.