Chickenpox is endemic worldwide, and the varicella virus causes it. It shows its symptoms as itchy, blister-like rashes all over the body, including the face. All susceptible travellers should receive a chickenpox vaccination to avoid the risk of infection. In Worcester, we provide professional travel vaccination assistance to make your trip worth remembering.
In Worcester, at what age is the chickenpox vaccine given?
CDC recommends two doses of chickenpox vaccine for those who have never had chickenpox and have never been immunised.
Routine chickenpox vaccination for children is as follows:
- The first dose should be administered between 12 to 15 months of age.
- The subsequent administration should be done between 4 to 6 years of age.
Age-appropriate immunisation for healthy individuals (non-contraindicated to the vaccine):
- Preschool children (between the ages of 12 months and 3 years) require one dose
- School-going children (older than 4 years), teens, and adults need two doses
If you’re travelling abroad and non-vaccinated, you should get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine. The standard gap should be at least 28 days.
Immunocompromised individuals who do not have sufficient immunity to fight against chickenpox should consult with their doctor or travel health professional before going abroad.
Is the chickenpox vaccine given in the UK?
Chickenpox is a contagious viral disease with no cure. However, the infection can be mild and it goes away in a week or two without any treatment.
In order to avoid or minimise the severity of varicella disease, it is suggested that the healthy unvaccinated population aged less than 12 months who do not have any other indications of immunity receive the chickenpox vaccination.
You should get a vaccine as soon as possible if you are exposed to the virus while travelling in an area where the disease is prevalent, and there are no contraindications to the vaccine.
In children, the protective effect of the vaccine was reported to be up to 90% after being vaccinated within 3 days of exposure.
People exposed to the virus should have a booster shot to ensure they are fully protected while travelling.
How often do I need a chickenpox vaccine in Worcester?
Two doses of the chickenpox vaccination are administered into the upper arm over 4 to 8 weeks.
Chickenpox vaccines have been demonstrated to protect 9 out of 10 children who receive a single dose.
It is recommended that you take two doses in order to maximise your immunological response. After childhood, the effectiveness of the vaccine declines.
Most teenagers and adults vaccinated against chickenpox are anticipated to become immune to the illness.
How to get vaccinated if you’re exposed to chickenpox during your trip?
You should receive the chickenpox vaccination if you've been exposed to someone who has chickenpox or shingles and you don't have immunity.
Within three to five days of exposure, you should get the vaccination. You must have two doses at least 28 days apart.
If it has been more than five days since your exposure, two doses of vaccination are still recommended to guard against infection for future exposures.
If you previously got one dose of the chickenpox vaccine and are exposed. In that case, you should get a second dose after consultation with a travel healthcare professional as per evidence of your immunity.
Should I get a chickenpox vaccine for travel?
Varicella immunisation should be given to everyone, including those who travel or live abroad, regardless of whether they have evidence of immunity.
A chickenpox vaccination certificate is not mandatory for passing international borders. Still, if you don't have evidence of immunity, you should be considered at risk for varicella during overseas travel.
Book your appointment at Worcester Travel Clinic to get vaccinated.
