Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA)

Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) is indicated for active immunization for prevention of chickenpox in individuals 12 months of age and older. It is generally given as an injection under the skin or into the muscle of the upper arm in two doses.

Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) is administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. It protects the child from diseases that can be caused by the varicella virus. It is given to children between 12 months to 12 years of age and the second dose after a minimum gap of 3 months. For adolescents and adults as well, it is given in two doses a minimum of 4 weeks apart.

Some common side effects of this medicine include mild pain, swelling, and redness at the site of injection, rashes, and low-grade fever. These are usually temporary and resolve with time. However, if these side effects do not go away with time or get worse, let the doctor know. The doctor may help with ways to reduce or prevent these symptoms.

To make sure the vaccine is safe, before receiving the vaccine, it is important to let the doctor know if you have any other illnesses. You should also tell the doctor about all the medicines you are taking. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult and seek advice from their doctor before receiving the vaccine.

• Prevention of Chickenpox

Prevention of Chickenpox
Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) is the most effective way of preventing chickenpox. It is given by a doctor or a nurse and should not be self-administered. However, chickenpox is highly contagious. You can help prevent the spread of chickenpox by practicing good hygiene and washing your hands frequently. Reduce your exposure to people who have chickenpox. If you already have chickenpox, stay at home until all of your blisters have dried and crusted over.

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Varilrix

• Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
• Fever
• Rash

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) is a vaccine. It helps develop immunity by initiating a mild infection. This type of infection does not cause illness, but it does stimulate the body's immune system to produce antibodies to protect against any future infections.

• Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) helps prevent chickenpox.
• It is given as an injection under the skin or into the muscle of the upper arm.
• It is given as two doses. The second dose is given 4 to 8 weeks after the first dose.
• You may get a rash or mild fever, or you feel tired or sore at the site of the injection.
• Do not take Varicella Vaccine (live) attenuated (NA) if you are pregnant or have a weak immune system.

Sinha A, Singh S. Immunization and Immunodeficiency. In: Paul VK, Bagga A, editors. Ghai Essential Pediatrics. 8th ed. New Delhi: CBS Publisher's & Distributors Pvt Ltd.; 2013. p. 197.

Gershon AA. Live Attenuated Varicella Vaccine. J Infect Dis. 1997;1:130-134. [Accessed 04 Apr. 2019] (online) Available from:

Varilrix [Varicella Vaccine, Live IP]. Mumbai, India: GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited; 1998 [revised 14 Jan. 2019]. [Accessed 15 Jul. 2019] (online) Available from:

Varilrix [Varicella Vaccine, live attenuated]. Rixensart, Belgium: GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA; 1999 [revised 02 Dec. 2014]. [Accessed 15 Jul. 2019] (online) Available from:

Varivax [Varicella Virus Vaccine Live]. Whitehouse Station, New Jersey: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.; 1995 [revised Oct. 2018]. [Accessed 17 Jul. 2019] (online) Available from: