Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine — Mississauga
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. While most Canadians develop immunity through childhood infection or vaccination, many adults — particularly those who grew up in tropical countries — have no immunity and are at risk of severe illness.
The chickenpox vaccine (Varivax) is available at Peel Travel Clinic for adults requiring catch-up immunization. We can also test your immunity before vaccinating.
Who Should Get the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Adults who have never had chickenpox and have no documented vaccination record
Adults who grew up in tropical countries (South Asia, Southeast Asia, Caribbean, Africa) where chickenpox is less common in childhood
Travelers heading to tropical destinations where chickenpox circulates year-round
Healthcare workers, teachers, and childcare workers who are non-immune
Not suitable for: pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, those with severe allergy to neomycin (consult our physician)
Vaccine Details
Varivax (Varicella Vaccine)
- •Type: Live attenuated virus
- •Doses for adults: 2 doses, 4–8 weeks apart
- •Efficacy: ~95% after 2 doses
- •Duration: Long-lasting; likely lifelong for most
- •Cost: ~$80–$90 per dose (2 doses required for adults)
- •OHIP coverage: Not covered for adults; covered for children in routine schedule
About Varicella (Chickenpox)
- •Highly contagious — spreads by air, respiratory droplets, and direct contact
- •In adults, chickenpox is significantly more severe than in children
- •Adult complications: pneumonia (1 in 400), encephalitis, bacterial skin infections
- •After infection, the virus stays dormant and can reactivate as shingles later in life
- •Especially dangerous in pregnancy — can cause congenital varicella syndrome
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine as an adult?
Adults who have never had chickenpox and have no documented proof of vaccination need the varicella vaccine. This is common for adults who grew up in tropical countries (where chickenpox is less prevalent) and those who missed vaccination in childhood. Before vaccinating, we can check your immunity with a blood test (varicella IgG). If you are immune, no vaccine is needed. Adults who are not immune are at risk of severe chickenpox complications, so vaccination is important.
How many doses of chickenpox vaccine do adults need?
Adults who have no immunity to varicella need 2 doses of the varicella vaccine (Varivax), spaced 4–8 weeks apart. Children aged 12 months to 12 years typically receive 2 doses in the routine schedule. A single dose provides about 70–85% protection; two doses increase this to over 95%. Both doses are required for full protection in adults.
Is the chickenpox vaccine covered by OHIP in Ontario?
The chickenpox vaccine is covered by OHIP for children in Ontario as part of the routine immunization schedule (given at 15 months and 4–6 years). For adults who missed vaccination, the vaccine is generally not covered by OHIP and is an out-of-pocket cost. Each dose is approximately $80–$90. Some private insurance plans cover it — check your benefits. We provide official receipts for insurance submission.
Why is chickenpox vaccination relevant for travel?
Chickenpox is common year-round in tropical countries, particularly in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, where natural immunity from childhood infection is less common than in temperate climates. Canadian-born adults who never had chickenpox or were vaccinated only once face a real risk of exposure when traveling. Additionally, chickenpox in adults is significantly more severe than in children, with higher rates of pneumonia, encephalitis, and hospitalization.
Can I get the chickenpox vaccine if I am not sure if I had it as a child?
Yes — if you are unsure whether you had chickenpox or were vaccinated, we can check your immunity with a simple blood test (varicella IgG serology) before vaccinating. If the test shows you are immune, you do not need the vaccine. If you are not immune, we will vaccinate you. It is safe to give the vaccine even if you later turn out to be immune — there is no harm in vaccinating someone who is already immune. However, the blood test saves the cost of an unnecessary vaccine.
Get Your Chickenpox Vaccine in Mississauga
Immunity testing and vaccination available at Peel Travel Clinic.
Call (905) 890-2757Other Vaccines at Peel Travel Clinic
Disclaimer: Vaccine eligibility depends on medical history and individual circumstances. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a consultation with our physician. Please book an appointment to discuss whether the chickenpox vaccine is right for you.