Chickenpox - Varivax Vaccine in Toronto

Why get vaccinated?

Chickenpox (Varicella) is caused by a virus called varicella-zoster and is very contagious. The virus is usually spread through direct contact with the blisters that are on the skin or by the inhalation of respiratory droplets through coughing and sneezing.

Chickenpox (Varicella) is contagious from two days before the rash (blisters) appear and until they have scabbed or crusted over.

Chickenpox causes itching, tiredness and a rash in most patients. The rash with blisters can lead to a severe skin infections with other bacteria that enter the skin through the broken blisters. One of the most common triggers for flesh eating disease (Staphylococcus) are the skin lesions from Chickenpox.

Rarely Chickenpox can spread to the lungs (Pneumonia) and the brain (Encephalitis) where it can be severe and even fatal.

A very painful rash called Shingles (Herpes Zoster) can appear years later.

Chickenpox (Varicella) vaccine is very effective and safe.

Who should get Chickenpox vaccine and when?

Adult travelers to endemic areas should make sure they have adequate immunity at least a month prior to travel.

It is recommended children 12 months and older should be vaccinated and a booster dose should be administered between 18 months and 4 years of age.

People over the age of 13 who have not previously had Chickenpox or the vaccine for Chickenpox should receive two doses at least 28 days apart.

Are there any risks from Chickenpox vaccine?

Chickenpox vaccine is much safer than getting Chickenpox. Most people do not have any major problems with the vaccine.

     To get your Chickenpox vaccine call the GTA Travel Clinic and Vaccination Centre at 905 303 1900. We cover the Toronto, Richmond Hill and Woodbridge areas for Chicken Pox Vaccine.

Please note: The information in this document is provided for general information purposes only. Nothing takes the place of speaking with a travel doctor. This information and your receipt thereof is not intended to be, nor shall be deemed to be, informed consent by you to any medical care or treatment whatsoever. Please consult our doctors at the GTA Travel Clinic and Vaccination Centre for a proper medical assessment.

Note that the vaccine is not a benefit of O.H.I.P. for adults.

If you have private health insurance through work or school you may be covered for vaccines. With your payment we will provide you with an invoice (with the unique Drug Identification Number for each vaccine) so you can claim your expenses back from your insurance company.

Insurance companies will require Drug Identification Numbers for each vaccine in order to reimburse you.

Click here to find the names and phone numbers of major Insurance Companies.