In the UK, the varicella vaccine (commonly known as the chickenpox vaccine) is not routinely offered on the NHS. But if you’re planning foreign travel, particularly to countries where the vaccine is part of the national immunisation schedule or where healthcare access may be limited, it becomes a vital consideration.
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we often see confusion about whether the varicella vaccine is necessary before travelling abroad. Here, we’ll explain the differences between UK recommendations and international needs, helping you make an informed decision for your health and peace of mind.
What Is the Varicella Vaccine?
The varicella vaccine provides protection against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. While chickenpox is often mild in children, it can lead to complications such as shingles, bacterial infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis. This is particularly risky in older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
The vaccine is usually given in two doses, at least four weeks apart, and offers strong protection. It can prevent up to 90% of chickenpox cases and dramatically reduces the severity of the illness in the rare event that someone still gets infected.
The Varicella Vaccine in the UK: Who Gets It?
In the UK, the varicella vaccine is not part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, unlike in many other countries. Instead, it’s offered in the NHS only under specific circumstances, such as:
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To non-immune healthcare workers
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To close contacts of people with weakened immune systems
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Occasionally to women planning pregnancy who are non-immune
This means that the vast majority of UK children and adults are not vaccinated unless they have had chickenpox naturally, which most people do at a young age.
If you’re among the small but growing number of people who haven’t had chickenpox, or if you’re unsure of your immunity, it’s worth considering private vaccination, especially if you plan to travel.
Why Consider the Varicella Vaccine for Travel?
In many countries, the varicella vaccine is standard practice. If you’re travelling to regions such as:
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The United States, where varicella vaccination is mandatory for school and childcare entry
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Australia, Germany, Japan, or Canada, where chickenpox immunisation is widespread
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Parts of Asia, Africa, or South America, where access to healthcare may be limited
…you could be at higher risk of either contracting or spreading chickenpox. Some countries may even ask for proof of varicella vaccination when enrolling in schools, joining childcare programmes, or working in healthcare or childcare environments.
Contracting chickenpox while travelling can also be extremely disruptive, particularly if you are required to isolate or if the illness becomes severe. Access to supportive care or antiviral treatment may also vary greatly depending on where you are.
Should Adults Get the Varicella Vaccine?
Many adults assume that if they didn’t have chickenpox as a child, they’re safe now. Unfortunately, this isn’t true. Chickenpox tends to be more severe in adults, and the risk of complications is higher. If you’re unsure whether you’ve had it, a simple blood test can check for immunity.
You may benefit from the varicella vaccine if:
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You have never had chickenpox and are travelling abroad
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You work in healthcare, education, or childcare
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You’re planning a pregnancy and don’t have immunity
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You live or work with someone who is immunocompromised
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You’re enrolling a child in school overseas
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we regularly administer the varicella vaccine UK doses to patients preparing for long-term travel, gap years, family visits, or overseas relocations.
Safe, Reliable, and Travel-Ready
The chickenpox vaccine is safe, well-tolerated, and widely used worldwide. Side effects are usually mild and may include redness or soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or a small rash.
We recommend getting both doses at least a month before your travel date to ensure full protection. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status or timeline, our team can help you determine the best course of action.
Why Choose Brixton Travel Clinic?
As an established travel health provider in London, we offer:
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Quick and convenient appointments to suit your schedule
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Access to private vaccinations, including varicella and others not routinely available on the NHS
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Expert advice from trained travel health professionals
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A full range of travel essentials, from antimalarials to yellow fever vaccines
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Documentation and certificates where needed for international travel or school enrolment
We don’t just administer vaccines; we provide complete travel healthcare support from the moment you start planning your trip.
Book Your Appointment Today
Whether you’re a student travelling abroad, a family heading overseas, or an adult who’s never had chickenpox, now is the time to consider the varicella vaccine.
At Brixton Travel Clinic, we make it simple to protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable illness, with no long waits, no stress, just expert care.
Book your travel vaccine appointment today:
Contact us for more information or visit our clinic for all your travel healthcare essentials.
This blog was written on behalf of Brixton Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.