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Varivax

varicella vaccine
Used for Chickenpox
Used for Chickenpox

Varivax, the chickenpox vaccine, is a live vaccine used to prevent chickenpox (varicella) infection. The CDC recommends Varivax (varicella vaccine) as a routine childhood vaccine, but adults can receive it too if they need to catch up. Varivax (varicella vaccine) is given as an injection into the muscle or under the skin for a total of 2 doses. Because it's a live vaccine, certain people shouldn't receive this shot, such as those who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system. Side effects include injection-site reactions (e.g., pain, swelling, redness) and fever.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 30, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Varivax (varicella vaccine)?

What is Varivax (varicella vaccine) used for?

How Varivax (varicella vaccine) works

Varivax (varicella vaccine) is a live attenuated vaccine that protects you against chickenpox (varicella), a viral infection. The vaccine triggers your immune system to make antibodies against the virus. These antibodies help fight off the virus if you’re exposed to it in the future.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsVarivax
Drug ClassVaccine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Varivax (varicella vaccine) essentials

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Everything You Need to Know About Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

Written by Emmeline C. Academia, PharmD, BCOP
Vaccines: healthcare professional holding a syringe 1324182279

Varivax vs. Shingrix: 4 Differences Between The Vaccines

Written by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
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What are the side effects of Varivax (varicella vaccine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Age 12 months to 12 years:Age over 12 years:

Other Side Effects

  • Tiredness
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fussiness
  • Diarrhea
  • General feeling of discomfort
  • Itching
  • Chills
  • Muscle pain

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious allergic reactions: hives, rash, itching, dizziness, fever, shaking, nausea, flushing, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, chest pain

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Fever over 39°C (102°F)

Less common

Blue lips and fingernails

chest pain

chickenpox-like skin rash

coughing that sometimes produces a pink frothy sputum

decreased urine output

difficult, fast, or noisy breathing

dilated neck veins

extreme tiredness or weakness

general feeling of discomfort or illness

increased sweating

irregular breathing

irregular heartbeat

irritability

pale skin

swelling of the ankles, face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

tightness in the chest

weight gain

Rare

Black, tarry stools

blood in the urine or stools

chills

confusion

cough

difficulty with breathing or swallowing

fever

hives

itching, especially of the feet or hands

muscle or joint pain

pinpoint red spots on the skin

reddening of the skin, especially around the ears

seizures with high fever

severe or continuing headache

stiff neck

swelling of the glands in the neck

thickening of bronchial secretions

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness, sudden and severe

vomiting

Incidence not known

Back pain, sudden and severe

bleeding gums

blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

bloody nose

blurred vision

bruising more easily

dizziness

fast heartbeat

headache

heavier menstrual periods

inability to move the arms and legs

inability to speak

large, flat, blue, or purplish patches in the skin

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

loss of bladder control

muscle spasm or jerking of all extremities

painful blisters on the trunk of the body

painful knees and ankles

pale skin

pinpoint red spots on the skin

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

raised red swellings on the skin, buttocks, legs, or ankles

red, irritated eyes

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

seizures

shakiness and unsteady walk

skin rash

slurred speech

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

stomach pain

sudden loss of consciousness

sudden numbness and weakness in the arms and legs

swollen or painful glands

temporary blindness

tingling of the hands or feet

unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination

unusual weight gain or loss

weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

weakness of the muscles in your face

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Fever of 37.7°C (100°F) or higher, but not above 39°C (102°F)

hives, itching, pain, redness, soreness, tenderness, or warmth at the injection site

Less common

Common cold

congestion

constipation

cracked, dry, or scaly skin

diaper rash

diarrhea

disturbed sleep

dry skin

earache

heat rash or prickly heat

lack or loss of strength

loss of appetite

muscle ache, cramp, or stiffness

nausea

nervousness

runny nose

skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing

sneezing

sore throat

stuffy nose

swelling

swollen joints

teething

Incidence not known

Bacterial skin infections

body aches or pain

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

difficulty with moving

dryness or soreness of the throat

hoarseness

pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin

red rash with watery, yellow-colored, or pus-filled blisters

thick yellow to honey-colored crusts

voice changes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Varivax (varicella vaccine)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works very well to protect against chickenpox

Lowers your risk of getting shingles later in life

Available at most pharmacies and clinics

thumbs-down

Cons

Not safe for people who are pregnant or have weakened immune systems

Injection given into the muscle or under the skin by a healthcare professional

Only available as a brand-name medication

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Varivax (varicella vaccine)

pharmacist

  • Don't get Varivax (varicella vaccine) if you're sick, especially if you have a fever greater than 101.3°F. You typically need to until you recover first. Ask your primary care provider about when to receive the vaccination.

    • Keep a record of all your immunizations and show it to your healthcare professional before receiving any vaccine, including Varivax (varicella vaccine). This is helpful for your care team in figuring out what vaccines you need.

      • Side effects like fever, headache, stomach pain, and weakness are common within 1 to 2 days of receiving Varivax (varicella vaccine). But if they last longer and are severe, contact your primary care provider.

        • It's possible to have a fever or a rash that looks like chickenpox after getting Varivax (varicella vaccine), especially if it's your first dose. The rash is temporary and typically doesn't last too long.

          • If you get a severe reaction to Varivax (varicella vaccine), you or your healthcare professional can report it to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) by visiting their website or by calling 1-800-822-7967.

            • If you think you might be due for other vaccinations, let your healthcare professional know. They can double check whether or not you're able to get them on the same day as Varivax (varicella vaccine).

              • Let your care team know if you're allergic to neomycin or gelatin because you might be allergic to Varivax (varicella vaccine).

                • Avoid being around people with weakened immune systems and premature babies for 6 weeks after receiving Varivax (varicella vaccine). This is because the live vaccine could potentially cause them to get sick with chickenpox.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Varivax (varicella vaccine)

                  How long does Varivax (varicella vaccine) last?
                  Though it's not entirely clear how long protection from Varivax (varicella vaccine) lasts, most people who received two doses should be protected for life. While studies show protection for at least 10 to 20 years, it's likely longer, as these studies were done when varicella infections were more common and before widespread vaccination. The current recommendation for completing the series of Varivax (varicella vaccine) is two doses. Booster doses or re-vaccination aren't currently recommended.
                  When do you get Varivax (varicella vaccine)?
                  According to the CDC, vaccination against varicella from Varivax (varicella vaccine) is recommended as a 2-dose series. The first dose is recommended at ages 12 to 15 months, and the second dose is recommended at around age 4 to 6 years. For children who didn't get vaccinated during these time frames, people ages 7 years and older can still receive Varivax (varicella vaccine) to catch up. Talk to your primary care provider if you're not sure if and when you need to receive Varivax (varicella vaccine).
                  Is one dose of Varivax (varicella vaccine) enough?
                  The complete Varivax (varicella vaccine) series is 2 doses, not 1. Though research shows you still get some protection after 1 dose, it's important to complete the series for the most protection. Talk to your primary care provider if you have questions about getting a second dose of Varivax (varicella vaccine).
                  Is Varivax (varicella vaccine) a live vaccine?
                  Yes, Varivax (varicella vaccine) is a live vaccine. This means the vaccine is made up of a weakened form of the varicella virus. When injected, your body's immune system will start to make antibodies against this virus. Because Varivax (varicella vaccine) is a live vaccine, it shouldn't be used in people who have a weakened immune system (e.g., cancer, HIV, taking immunosuppressant medications), those who are sick with a fever, or people who are pregnant.
                  Can you get chickenpox if vaccinated with Varivax (varicella vaccine)?
                  Yes, it's still possible to get chickenpox even if you receive the Varivax (varicella vaccine), but it's rare. Studies show 98% of people who received the 2-dose series were protected. But even if you get infected, people who are vaccinated tend to have milder symptoms lasting a shorter time compared to those who are unvaccinated.
                  Can you get shingles if you had Varivax (varicella vaccine)?
                  Yes. Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It's possible to get shingles after Varivax (varicella vaccine). But the risk of shingles from Varivax (varicella vaccine) is much lower than the risk of shingles from a chickenpox infection.
                  Do you need Varivax (varicella vaccine) if you already had chickenpox?
                  No, you usually don't need to receive Varivax (varicella vaccine) if you've already had chickenpox. This is because your body has already been exposed to the virus. Your immune system has made antibodies against the virus that protect you for life. Talk to your primary care provider if you're not sure if you need to receive Varivax (varicella vaccine).
                  Does Varivax (varicella vaccine) protect against monkeypox?
                  No, Varivax (varicella vaccine) doesn't protect against monkeypox. Instead, there is another vaccine available called Jynneos that protects against monkeypox.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Varivax (varicella vaccine)?

                  Varivax (varicella vaccine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Life-threatening allergic reactions

                  • Risk factors: Allergy to neomycin | Allergy to gelatin

                    As with any vaccine, there's a rare chance that you might have a severe allergic reaction to Varivax (varicella vaccine). Your healthcare professional (HCP) might ask you to stay at the pharmacy or clinic for a short time after getting your vaccine to make sure you can receive proper care if a serious allergic reaction occurs. But sometimes, these reactions can happen after you've already left the clinic. Get medical help right away if you notice symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as feeling faint, swelling of the face, closing of the throat, difficulty breathing, hives or rash, dizziness, shaking, nausea, or chest pain.

                    risk-warning

                    Family history of a weakened immune system

                    • Risk factors: Family history of immune system conditions | HIV

                      If you have a family history of genetic immune system problems or if you have HIV, speak with your HCP before getting Varivax (varicella vaccine). You might have to be given Varivax (varicella vaccine) in a very specific way to make sure you don't get sick from the vaccine. Your prescriber might also have to run blood tests to see if you're healthy enough to receive this vaccine.

                      risk-warning

                      Vaccine shedding

                      Because Varivax (varicella vaccine) is a live vaccine, it's possible for you to spread very small amounts of the varicella virus after your dose, but it's very rare. This is called vaccine shedding and is generally not a problem. To be safe, you might want to avoid being around certain people for 6 weeks after getting Varivax (varicella vaccine). This includes people with weakened immune systems, people taking medications that weaken their immune systems (e.g., chemotherapy, long-term steroids, biologic or transplant medications), those who are pregnant who aren't immune to chickenpox, newborn infants whose mothers aren't immune to chickenpox, and premature infants. Speak with your HCP if you have more questions about this potential problem.

                      risk-warning

                      Immune globulins and transfusions

                      • Risk factors: People receiving immune globulins, blood, plasma transfusions

                        If you receive immune globulins or blood and plasma transfusions, ask your care team about when you should receive Varivax (varicella vaccine). They need to space out the timing of your immune globulin or blood or plasma transfusion from Varivax (varicella vaccine) because these products can interact with the vaccine and affect how well it works to protect you from chickenpox. If you received these blood products unexpectedly after getting Varivax (varicella vaccine), contact your primary care provider. You might need to have blood tests done to see if Varivax (varicella vaccine) worked.

                        risk-warning

                        Reye's syndrome

                        • Risk factors: Children under 18 years old taking aspirin

                          Children under 18 years should avoid taking aspirin and other salicylate-containing products (e.g., bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol)) for at least 6 weeks after receiving Varivax (varicella vaccine). Taking these after receiving the vaccination raises the risk for a serious condition called Reye's syndrome that causes liver damage and brain swelling. If your child needs medication for pain or fever, speak with your child's pediatrician for safer recommendations.

                          dosage

                          Varivax (varicella vaccine) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 1 vial of 0.5ml of Varivax (varicella vaccine) is $186.95 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 15.99% off the average retail price of $222.52.
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                          Vial
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          0.5ml1 vial$186.95$186.95

                          Typical dosing for Varivax (varicella vaccine)

                          Varivax (varicella vaccine) is given as an injection into the muscle or under the skin.

                          • Age 12 months to 12 years: Varivax (varicella vaccine) is given in two doses. The two doses should be separated by at least 3 months.

                            • The first dose is typically given between the ages of 12 and 15 months.

                            • The second dose is typically given between the ages of 4 and 6 years.

                          • Age over 12 years: Varivax (varicella vaccine) is given in two doses.

                            • You can get the first dose at any time you choose.

                            • The second dose should be given at least 4 weeks after the first dose.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Varivax (varicella vaccine) and other drugs

                          Varivax (varicella vaccine) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Varivax (varicella vaccine). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving this vaccine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

                          Receiving this vaccine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to use this vaccine or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Receiving this vaccine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Receiving this vaccine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                          How much does Varivax (varicella vaccine) cost?

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                          Varivax (varicella vaccine) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Varivax (varicella vaccine) will not be safe for you to take.

                          • Allergy to neomycin or gelatin

                          • Weakened immune system

                          • Active illness with a fever greater than 101.3°F

                          • Active, untreated tuberculosis

                          • Currently pregnant

                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Varivax (varicella vaccine)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Varivax (varicella vaccine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Varivax (varicella vaccine)
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                          latest news

                          What is the latest news about Varivax (varicella vaccine)?

                          Yes, adults can get chickenpox. If you’ve never had chickenpox and have never been vaccinated, you can get chickenpox at any age — even as an adult.

                          Can Adults Get Chickenpox?

                          Yes, adults can get chickenpox. If you’ve never had chickenpox and have never been vaccinated, you can get chickenpox at any age — even as an adult.
                          The herpes simplex virus is regarded as permanent, but researchers are closer to developing a vaccine (and maybe a cure). See updates on the vaccine progress.

                          Is a Herpes Vaccine Currently In the Works?

                          The herpes simplex virus is regarded as permanent, but researchers are closer to developing a vaccine (and maybe a cure). See updates on the vaccine progress.
                          Varivax and Shingrix are vaccines for chickenpox and shingles, respectively. These vaccines target different age groups and have several other key differences.

                          Varivax vs. Shingrix: 4 Differences Between The Vaccines

                          Varivax and Shingrix are vaccines for chickenpox and shingles, respectively. These vaccines target different age groups and have several other key differences.
                          If you’re planning an international trip, you may need to update your vaccinations. Learn where to get travel vaccines, such as for yellow fever, and how to save on the cost.

                          Travel Vaccines: How to Get Vaccinated for Yellow Fever, Malaria, and More

                          If you’re planning an international trip, you may need to update your vaccinations. Learn where to get travel vaccines, such as for yellow fever, and how to save on the cost.
                          Children as young as 12 months old can receive the chickenpox vaccine, and 2 shots of the vaccine are recommended for adults and children.

                          Everything You Need to Know About Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

                          Children as young as 12 months old can receive the chickenpox vaccine, and 2 shots of the vaccine are recommended for adults and children.
                          The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that most state Medicaid programs should cover at least some adult vaccines, but some may not cover any immunizations. We explain how state Medicaid programs differ in covering flu shots, shingles, Tdap, and other common vaccinations, and where you can find free or low-cost vaccinations near you.

                          Will Medicaid Cover the Flu Shot, Shingles Vaccines, and Other Vaccinations?

                          The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that most state Medicaid programs should cover at least some adult vaccines, but some may not cover any immunizations. We explain how state Medicaid programs differ in covering flu shots, shingles, Tdap, and other common vaccinations, and where you can find free or low-cost vaccinations near you.
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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). About the varicella vaccines.

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Chickenpox VIS.

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About chickenpox.

                          View All References (7)

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Chickenpox vaccination.

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Child immunization schedule notes.

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Timing and spacing of immunobiologics.

                          I Vaccinate. (n.d.). What is vaccine shedding?

                          Jenco, M. (2019). Study: Children vaccinated against varicella less likely to get herpes zoster. American Academy of Pediatrics News.

                          Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC. (2023). Varivax- varicella virus vaccine live injection, powder, lyophilized for suspension [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          National Academies Press. (2011). 5 Varicella virus vaccine. Adverse Effects of Vaccines: Evidence and Causality.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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