Chickenpox Vaccine (Varicella)
Chickenpox is common in childhood, but adults who haven't had it are at risk of a more severe illness. Vaccination is recommended for non-immune adults, particularly those in close contact with vulnerable people or travelling to areas where chickenpox circulates year-round.
Who needs this vaccine?
- Adults who have never had chickenpox and have not previously been vaccinated
- Healthcare workers and carers who may come into contact with vulnerable patients
- Those living with or caring for immunocompromised individuals (who cannot be vaccinated themselves)
- Women planning pregnancy who are unsure of their chickenpox immunity
- Travellers to areas where chickenpox is endemic year-round (including tropical regions where UK adults may lack natural immunity)
If you've had chickenpox before, you are likely immune and do not need the vaccine. A blood test can confirm your immunity if you're unsure. Your clinician will advise.
Doses & schedule
Two doses are required, given 4–8 weeks apart. Both doses are needed for reliable protection. Vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy — it should be given before conception or after delivery.
Frequently asked questions
A blood test (varicella IgG antibody test) can confirm whether you are immune. Ask your clinician about this at your appointment. In many cases, if you grew up in the UK before the vaccine era, you are likely immune even if you don't recall having chickenpox.
The chickenpox vaccine is not part of the routine NHS childhood schedule in the UK. It is available on the NHS for certain groups (e.g. non-immune healthcare workers) but is generally offered privately. We provide it privately for anyone who is non-immune and wants protection.
Yes — chickenpox tends to be more severe in adults than in children and can lead to complications including bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, and in rare cases encephalitis. Adults who haven't had it are at meaningful risk of a significant illness.
Vaccination may reduce the risk of developing shingles later in life by reducing viral load. However, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. There is a separate shingles vaccine (Shingrix) for older adults — ask your clinician if you want to discuss both.
Book your chickenpox vaccination
Same-day appointments at our clinic near Regent's Park. Your clinician will confirm your suitability and advise on the right schedule.