An extra chickenpox (varicella) vaccine dose can give your child stronger and long-lasting protection. However, it is not part of the free government schedule and will involve a private cost. It is an individual choice, and your GP can help you weigh up the benefits and downsides for your family.
What is the standard chickenpox vaccine?
- In Australia, children are routinely given one dose of chickenpox vaccine at 18 months, as part of the combination MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella) vaccine
- This funded dose provides good protection against severe disease for most healthy children
Why consider an extra dose?
- One dose prevents severe chickenpox in around 65-82% of cases, and a second dose increases protection to about 95% effectiveness
- A second dose can be given at least one month after the 18-month dose
- A second dose can help reduce your child’s risk of catching and spreading it, especially in childcare and school settings where we aim to give the vaccine within 3 days of exposure
Reasons you may choose not to
- Cost – $75. The extra dose is not funded on the National Immunisation Program
- Even with a single dose, most children are well protected, and, if they do get chickenpox, it is usually milder and shorter than in unvaccinated children
- All vaccinations can cause side effects such as a sore arm, mild fever, or a small rash, a very rarely, more serious reactions. Your GP can discuss these with you further.
How to decide and where to get more information
- Speak with your GP about your child’s medical history, family circumstances, childcare/school exposure, and the costs, so you can decide whether an extra dose is right for you
Trusted local information is available from:
- NSW Health Chickenpox Vaccine Parent Information Page (https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/parent-info-varicella.aspx)
- Health-direct Australia Chickenpox Information (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/chickenpox)
- Australian Government Department of Health Chickenpox Vaccine Page (https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/chickenpox-varicella-vaccine?language=en)