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 vaccine in Cheltenham to avoid the risk of infection. We provide professional travel vaccination assistance to make your trip worth remembering.
In Cheltenham, at what age is the chickenpox vaccine given?
Two doses of the chickenpox vaccine should be given as per CDC recommendations 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 non-vaccinated, you should get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine. The standard gap should be at least 28 days.
Immunocompromised people who do not have enough immunity to combat chickenpox should consult their doctor or a travel health specialist before travelling overseas.
Is the chickenpox vaccine given in the UK?
Vaccination ensures your protection against many bacterial and viral infections if you're travelling to high-risk areas.
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.
To avoid or reduce the severity of varicella disease, it is recommended that healthy unvaccinated children under the age of 12 months who do not have any other indications of immunity receive the chickenpox immunisation.
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 Cheltenham?
Over the course of four to eight weeks, two doses of the chickenpox vaccination are administered intramuscularly.
Vaccines against chickenpox have been shown to protect nine out of ten 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 to it, you should get a second dose after consultation with a travel healthcare professional.
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 Cheltenham Travel Clinic to get vaccinated.
