Thanks to the widespread availability of a vaccine, children no longer have to go through the chickenpox. Chickenpox is a highly contagious illness that causes uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. It’s usually relatively mild in children but can become serious in adults and more vulnerable parts of the population.
Because of the higher risk of complications in adults, you might be worried about getting chickenpox again and whether you can get the chickenpox vaccination in Streatham Keep reading to learn more about chickenpox reinfection, prevention and symptoms.
Can You Get Chickenpox More Than Once?
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes shingles. Most people who get chickenpox will have lifelong immunity against the disease. A second case of chickenpox is highly rare.
However, the varicella zoster virus can remain in your system for years after you recover from the chickenpox. While it’s unlikely to cause another case of chickenpox, it can cause shingles later in life.
Symptoms of Chickenpox
Everyone knows that chickenpox causes an itchy and painful rash, but there are other symptoms that typically accompany the illness. The rash develops 10-20 days after exposure to the virus and other symptoms can start in the days before the first blister appears.
Other Chickenpox Symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Headache
- Feeling unwell
Once the rash develops, it will go through three phases. The first phase causes raised red bumps before the second phase turns them into fluid-filled blisters. After the blister breaks and leaks, they crust over and heal. It’s common to experience all three phases at once and you’ll stop being contagious after the last blister has fully healed.
Chickenpox Vaccination in Northolt and Sydenham
The chickenpox vaccination is not generally available through the NHS and isn’t included on the routine child vaccination schedule. Most people will need to obtain the vaccine privately through pharmacies like Touchwood Pharmacy.
It’s recommended for adults who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine and who:
Are in close contact with vulnerable people
- Frontline workers
- Laboratory staff
- Pregnant women
Even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, you and your children can still get chickenpox vaccination in Streatham from Touchwood Pharmacy. You can also book appointments for chickenpox vaccination in Northampton and Ramsgate. Visit our website or contact us directly to protect yourself and your loved ones from the miserable symptoms of chickenpox.
