Varivax 3 (Varicella Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine)

Additional information

Varivax 3 (Varicella Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine) is typically administered as two doses 4 to 8 weeks apart for adolescents over the age of 13 and adults. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It will be given to you by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinical setting. If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist. 
 
WARNING: Like all vaccines, Varivax 3 may not fully protect 100% of those who get the vaccine. Vaccine recipients should avoid salicylates (medications derived from salicylic acid, such as aspirin) for 6 weeks after vaccination as Reye syndrome (a serious condition which can affect all your body organs) has been reported following use of salicylates during natural varicella infection. In rare circumstances, it is possible to catch chicken pox, from a person who has been vaccinated with Varivax 3. This may occur in persons who have not previously been vaccinated or never had chickenpox, as well as persons with a weakened immune system, pregnant women who never had chickenpox, and newborn babies whose mothers never had chicken pox.
 
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause injection site complaints such as pain, swelling, itching and redness. 
It may cause fever, irritability, tingling of the skin, shingles, or a chicken pox-like rash on the body or at the injection site.
It may cause nausea, vomiting, chills, fatigue, headache, irritability, malaise, and sleep disturbance.
 
Contraindications: Severe allergic reaction to the vaccine, a previous dose of a varicella-containing vaccine, or any component of the formulation, including neomycin (an antibiotic) and gelatin. Immunosuppressed (suppressed immunity) or immunodeficient (low immunity) individuals due to disease or medical therapy should not use . Do not use in case of active, untreated tuberculosis (bacterial infection), or active febrile illness with fever >38.5°C. Women planning to become pregnant within the next 3 months should not take .
 
Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.
 
Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Varivax 3 (Varicella Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine)