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Chickenpox Vaccinations at Doctor Today

Chickenpox (varicella zoster) is normally a mild disease in younger children but deaths and serious complications can occur in a few children (more information). A recent research report has recommended vaccination as the only way to avoid childhood deaths from chickenpox (more information). The government is still debating as to whether a chickenpox jab can be added to the MMR vaccine, but in view of unfounded concerns about the MMR, initially it will only be offered to teenage children who have not had chickenpox. Parents who wish their children to be vaccinated can do so at our clinic, but please check the manufacturer's patient information sheet before making your decision.

Adults and teenagers who have not had chickenpox are strongly advised to get vaccinated, unless immune compromised, as adult chickenpox can be a very nasty disease. It is also known that a chickenpox vaccine booster may help prevent shingles in adults who have had chickenpox but not shingles (more information). This would also be a good opportunity to consider vaccination against a major pneumonia organism (Pneumovax) (more information) and also your annual flu vaccine (more information) if this has not already been done (see our full list of Adult and Childhood vaccinations).

Please do not hesitate to email us at enquiries@doctortoday.co.uk or call us on 020 7433 1444 if you have any further questions or wish to make an appointment for a chickenpox vaccination.