Protect yourself and your family from chickenpox with our safe and effective chickenpox vaccination in Nuneaton. At Crowhill Pharmacy, we provide a professional and convenient private vaccination service to help prevent this common and highly contagious illness. Our experienced pharmacists offer trusted advice, expert care, and reliable protection for both adults and children.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox (also known as varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It usually leads to an itchy, blister-like rash, fever, and tiredness. While it’s often mild in children, it can cause serious complications in adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Once infected, the virus stays dormant in the body and may reactivate later in life as shingles, a painful nerve condition.
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against chickenpox and reduce the risk of shingles in the future.
Why Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The chickenpox vaccine offers long-term immunity and prevents most cases of infection. If a vaccinated person does catch chickenpox, symptoms are usually much milder and recovery is quicker.
Getting vaccinated also helps prevent spreading the virus to others, particularly vulnerable people who can’t be vaccinated.
Benefits of the chickenpox vaccine:
—> Prevents most cases of chickenpox
—> Reduces severity and complications if infection occurs
—> Lowers the risk of shingles later in life
—> Protects people who are vulnerable or immunocompromised
—> Provides peace of mind for families, carers, and healthcare workers
Who Can Have the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The vaccine is suitable for adults and children aged 1 year and over who have not had chickenpox before. It’s especially recommended for:
—> Healthcare, childcare, and teaching professionals
—> People in close contact with those who are immunocompromised
—> Adults who have never had chickenpox and wish to avoid infection
The chickenpox vaccine is not currently part of the NHS childhood immunisation schedule, but it’s available privately through our pharmacy vaccination service in Nuneaton.
Who Should Not Have the Chickenpox Vaccine?
The vaccine is not suitable for:
—> Pregnant women or those planning to conceive within one month
—> People with weakened immune systems (due to medication or health conditions)
—> Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine or its ingredients
Our pharmacist will carry out a full consultation to make sure the vaccine is appropriate for you before proceeding.
About the Vaccine
At Crowhill Pharmacy, we use trusted vaccines such as Varivax and Varilrix, both proven to provide effective protection against chickenpox. The vaccination is given as two separate injections, usually four to eight weeks apart, in the upper arm or thigh.
These vaccines contain a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus, allowing your immune system to develop protection safely and effectively.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your chickenpox vaccination appointment is quick, simple, and handled by qualified professionals:
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Consultation: We’ll review your medical history and confirm the vaccine is suitable.
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Vaccination: The injection is given in a private consultation room by a trained pharmacist.
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Aftercare: You’ll receive guidance on what to expect, including how to manage any mild side effects.
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the appointment.
Side Effects of the Chickenpox Vaccine
The chickenpox vaccine is very safe and well-tolerated. Mild side effects may include:
—> Redness, swelling, or tenderness where the injection was given
—> A mild rash resembling chickenpox
—> Slight fever or tiredness
Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. Our pharmacists are fully trained to provide care and reassurance during and after your vaccination.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chickenpox Vaccine
1. Is the chickenpox vaccine safe for children?
Yes. The vaccine is well-tested and safe for children aged 1 year and over. Mild side effects, such as redness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or a mild rash, can occur, but serious reactions are extremely rare. Our pharmacists carefully review each child’s medical history before vaccination to ensure it’s safe.
2. Can I get the vaccine if I’ve already had chickenpox?
If you’ve had chickenpox before, vaccination is usually unnecessary because you’re likely immune. Our pharmacist will discuss your history and may recommend a blood test if there’s uncertainty about your immunity.
3. How many doses do I need?
The chickenpox vaccine is given as two separate doses, usually spaced 4–8 weeks apart. This ensures optimal protection and long-term immunity.
4. Can adults get the vaccine?
Yes, adults who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine can receive it. It’s especially recommended for those in healthcare, childcare, or in close contact with vulnerable people.
5. What should I do after vaccination?
Most people can return to normal activities immediately. Mild side effects like soreness, rash, or slight fever may appear. Drink plenty of fluids, monitor for symptoms, and contact our pharmacy if anything unusual occurs.
6. Can pregnant women receive the chickenpox vaccine?
No. The vaccine is not suitable during pregnancy. Women planning to conceive should wait at least one month after vaccination before becoming pregnant.
Why Choose Crowhill Pharmacy?
At Crowhill Pharmacy, we make vaccination easy, safe, and accessible. Our service is:
—> Private and convenient – no GP appointment required
—> Delivered by trained pharmacists with vaccination expertise
—> Confidential and supportive – with personalised aftercare advice
—> Quick and flexible – appointments to suit your schedule
We’re proud to provide professional healthcare with a personal touch for our local community.
Book Your Chickenpox Vaccine in Nuneaton
Take the simple step to protect yourself and your loved ones from chickenpox. Book your chickenpox vaccination in Nuneaton today at Crowhill Pharmacy.
Contact our friendly team or use our online booking system to schedule your consultation.
Protect your health. Protect your family. Choose Crowhill Pharmacy.
