Varicella

(Chickenpox)

Varicella, or chickenpox, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is easily spread from person-to-person by touching or breathing in the virus particles from chickenpox blisters. Common symptoms include fever and a blister-like skin rash. Herpes zoster, or shingles, is a painful rash that can occur many years following chickenpox. In Ontario, two doses of varicella vaccine are given to children and a herpes zoster vaccine is given to older adults.

To obtain or inquire about an immunization record, or for general immunization information, please contact your local public health unit.