Varicella Vaccine - Side Effects

Side Effects

Serious side effects are very rare. However, in rare occasions, some severe reactions have been reported such as seizures, pneumonia, and anaphylaxis.

The possible mild side effects include redness, stiffness, and soreness at the injection site, as well as fever. A few people may develop a mild rash which usually appears around the shot's area.

There is a short term risk of developing herpes zoster (shingles) following vaccination. However, this risk is less than the risk due to a natural infection resulting in chickenpox. Most of the cases reported have been mild and have not been associated with serious complications.

Research suggests that widespread vaccination against chickenpox, now common in the United States, may lead to a significant increase in shingles among the elderly.