An example of childhood vaccinations is the chickenpox vaccine.
Most of us don’t need the chickenpox vaccine as we caught this virus as a child. Chickenpox is a common childhood illness and is relatively mild however it is extremely contagious. However, chickenpox as an adult is more serious and that’s why the chickenpox vaccine is important.
Chickenpox in adults
Catching chickenpox as an adult is more serious than catching it as a child. Adults who catch chickenpox will typically experience similar but more severe symptoms such as:
- Fever and headaches
- Body aches
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Itchy rash and seeping blisters
Chickenpox in adults can lead to complications that require admission to hospitalisation and even death. These complications include:
- Sepsis
- Dehydration
- Encephalitis
- Pneumonia
- Toxic shock syndrome
Your risk of catching chickenpox as an adult is higher if you come into contact with children under 12 – such as working in a school. The chickenpox vaccine is, therefore, a good option for keeping yourself safe.
Shingles is a condition caused by the same virus that affects older adults who’ve previously had chickenpox.
For the chickenpox and other childhood vaccinations, come to Haddenham Pharmacy near Ely.
Please get in contact with us today for more information about the childhood vaccinations we offer.