How old does my child need to be?
We can vaccinate children aged 14 months or older.
The Chickenpox vaccine must be given at least a month after other vaccines so we recommend giving it a month after your baby has the 12-month and 13-month vaccines, ie at 14 months, but can be given any time after this too.
How many shots do they need?
HSE recommendations are for 2 doses at least 1 month apart.
Is the Chickenpox vaccine included in the routine childhood vaccination schedule?
It is in the routine schedule in many countries but not in Ireland yet.
How much does it cost?
The cost per shot is €90 which could seem expensive but should save you 2 unplanned and possibly unpaid weeks off work when the creche tell you that they won't take your child until the infection has passed.
How do I make an appointment?
Give Michelle or Fiona a call on reception for an appointment with our nurse, subject to availibility of the vaccine.
A vaccine is available and is licensed for use in Ireland in children over 1 year and adults. However, vaccination against VZV does not form part of the National Childhood Immunisation Programme.
Children can receive the vaccine from 12-14 months of age. It should not be given within one month of any other live vaccines (eg MMR, yellow fever).
Children aged from 1 year to less than 13 years – 2 Doses are recommended, 4 to 8 weeks apart (we recommend your child gets the regular12-month and 13-month childhood vaccines as per the Irish schedule, then have the Chickenpox vaccine at any time after 14 months)
Vaccine efficacy is estimated to be 70-90% against infection, and 90-100%
against moderate or severe disease. Vaccine efficacy is lower (~75%) in
those aged >13 years. Immunity in most appears to be long lasting, probably
lifelong. However, approximately 1% of vaccinees per year have developed
mild breakthrough infections.Full details here
Common: Mild injection site soreness;
Uncommon: Fever and varicella rash (approx. 5 lesions), allergy