Get Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

and Comprehensive Vaccine Service in Chiang Mai

Planning to travel to Chiang Mai, Thailand, or living in the region? Protect yourself and your family from chickenpox and other preventable infectious diseases with comprehensive vaccination services at Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It spreads through airborne transmission, especially during colder months, although it can occur year-round. The incubation period is approximately 10-21 days, during which the infected person can spread the disease from 48 hours before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over. This means individuals can transmit the virus even before showing visible symptoms.

Prevalence of Chickenpox in Thailand

In Thailand, chickenpox remains a common viral infection. In 2023, there were 18,382 reported cases of chickenpox, translating to an incidence rate of 27.78 per 100,000 population. The most affected age groups were children aged 0-4 years (22.4%) and those aged 10-14 years (15.7%). Globally, children under the age of 5 are at the highest risk of contracting the virus, making vaccination an essential part of public health.

What are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?

Chickenpox symptoms can vary, but the most common include:

Fever
Headache
General body aches
A characteristic rash that starts as red spots and progresses to clear, fluid-filled blisters

The rash typically appears on the face, trunk, and can even affect the mouth or genital area. After recovery, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body’s nerve tissues and can reactivate later in life to cause shingles (herpes zoster).

Who Needs the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is recommended for individuals without immunity, especially in Thailand, where the virus is prevalent. Groups that should consider the vaccine include:

Individuals without a history of chickenpox or laboratory evidence of immunity
Healthcare personnel lacking prior chickenpox history or immunity
Those recently exposed to chickenpox with uncertain vaccination status or no evidence of immunity should receive the vaccine within 96 hours of exposure to reduce the risk of infection.

Getting vaccinated before travel or during an outbreak can significantly reduce the chance of contracting the virus.

Where to Get the Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine in Chiang Mai?

For reliable and affordable chickenpox vaccination services, visit the Travel clinic at Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic. Our clinic is home to the only specialized travel medicine doctor in northern Thailand, providing expert care and personalized travel health advice. Whether you are a traveler, an expatriate, or a local resident, we offer a wide range of travel medicine services to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and health information before your trip. The chickenpox vaccine is just one of the many vaccines we offer to keep you safe during your stay.

How Often Do I Need the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is typically administered in two doses.

First dose: recommended at age 12-15 months
Second dose: administered at 4-6 years of age (or at least 3 months after the first dose for older children and adults)

Adults without immunity or a history of chickenpox should receive two doses spaced at least four weeks apart. This two-dose schedule is essential for maximum protection against the virus.

How Effective is the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended chickenpox vaccination since 1998 due to its proven effectiveness. Studies show that after receiving the first dose of the vaccine, protection against the virus is approximately 76-85%. After completing both doses, protection rises to nearly 100%. Additionally, vaccination significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization by over 95% and maintains long-term immunity of over 90% for up to 10 years.

What Are the Side Effects of the Chickenpox Vaccine?

The chickenpox vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, like any vaccine, it can cause some side effects, which are usually mild. Common side effects include:

Soreness or swelling at the injection site
Fever
Mild rash
Fatigue

These side effects typically resolve on their own within a few days.

Why Get the Chickenpox Vaccine at Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic?

Expert Care: Our clinic is staffed with a travel medicine specialist, ensuring you receive the highest level of care and personalized travel advice tailored to your needs, travel history, and travel plans.
Affordable Vaccines and Services: We offer competitive pricing on all our vaccines and services, making high-quality healthcare accessible to everyone.
Professional English-Speaking Staff: Our supportive and knowledgeable team is fluent in English, providing a comfortable and clear communication experience for travelers and expatriates.
Comprehensive Travel Health Services: In addition to chickenpox and other vaccines, we offer a full range of travel medicine services, including travel consultations, medical certificates, and essential vaccinations for diseases like Japanese Encephalitis, rabies, and more.
Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai city, our clinic is easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for both locals and travelers.
Trusted by Travelers: Known for our reliable and professional services, Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic is a top choice for those seeking vaccinations and travel health advice in northern Thailand.

For consultations or further information about chickenpox vaccination, please contact Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic through the following channels: Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic