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Chickenpox Vaccination Cardiff

Cyncoed Pharmacy Chickenpox Vaccination Service in Cardiff is available to those aged 1 to 64 years old seeking protection from the chickenpox virus, including those who are eligible through the NHS but choose a private vaccination service.

If our Chickenpox Vaccination Service is suitable, you’ll receive two vaccinations at a minimum of four weeks apart. If you, or your child, had a first dose of chickenpox vaccination at a different provider, you can still have your second dose at Cyncoed Pharmacy, provided you meet all the eligibility criteria for the service. There must be a 4-week gap observed between the chickenpox vaccination and any other live vaccination such as the MMR vaccination.

About Chickenpox

chickenpox vaccination cyncoed cardiff

Chickenpox is a contagious disease that’s caused by the Varicella zoster virus.

Chickenpox can spread through sneezing, coughing or simply coming into contact with someone who has the virus.

After someone has had chickenpox, the virus ‘sleeps’ in their nerve cells. The virus can ‘wake up’ at a later stage and cause shingles. People with shingles can also spread the virus and cause chickenpox.

Chickenpox Symptoms and Stages in Children

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection that commonly affects children. Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure to the virus.

Early Symptoms of Chickenpox

The initial signs of chickenpox in children often include:

  • General tiredness or fatigue
  • A fever / high temperature
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscular aches and pains
Chickenpox Rash and Blister Stages

The most recognisable symptom of chickenpox is a red, itchy rash that progresses through several stages:

  1. Spots: Small, itchy red spots appear on the skin. 
  2. Blisters: The spots turn into clusters of small, fluid-filled blisters that can be extremely itchy and may burst.
  3. Scabs and Crusting: After a day or two, the blisters begin to scab over and form crusts. This process may take a few weeks to complete, as new spots can continue to appear for 3 to 5 days after the rash develops. Some scabs become flaky while others may leak fluid before falling off, meaning different spots may be at various stages of blistering or drying out during this time.

Chickenpox is contagious from 2 days before the rash appears until all blisters have formed scabs and are completely dry. 

Understanding the stages of chickenpox can help in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. If your child shows signs of chickenpox, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for guidance on care and treatment. More information about the importance of the Chickenpox Vaccination can be found on our blog here.