Chickenpox vaccine not only protects people who are vaccinated, but also reduces the risk in the community for people who can't be vaccinated. Some people, including those who may be at greater risk for serious disease, can't be vaccinated because of illness, medical conditions, or age. While no vaccine is 100 percent effective in preventing disease, the varicella vaccine is very successful. About 90 percent of people who are vaccinated are completely protected from chickenpox.
In addition, the vaccine almost always prevents severe cases of the disease. If a vaccinated person gets chickenpox, it's usually a mild case lasting only a few days. It involves fewer skin blisters (usually fewer than 50 instead of hundreds), little or no fever, and not many other symptoms.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is caused by a virus and includes fever, itchy skin with a blister rash, and general feelings of illness. It can affect people of any age, and more serious complications can happen. For more information about what chickenpox is and how it affects you click here (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
State-Supplied Vaccine
Vaccine Information Statement
External Resources
- Vaccines and Immunizations (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Find a local health department
Varicella Vaccine Requirement for Schools
- New Varicella Vaccine Requirements Flyer English (PDF)
- Nuevo requisito estatal sobre la vacuna contra la varicela para estudiantes del 7° al 12° grado escolar Español (PDF)
- Varicella Implementation Plan 2014 (PDF)