Yes, you can still get Chickenpox If Vaccinated, but it’s much less likely and if it does happen, symptoms are usually much milder than in unvaccinated individuals. This is called a “breakthrough infection.”
Can You Still Get Chickenpox If Vaccinated?
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Recommended Reading: How Is Chickenpox Spread?
Facts About Chickenpox After Vaccination
✔ Vaccine is 90% effective (with 2 doses) at preventing chickenpox completely
✔ Breakthrough cases occur in about 1-4% of vaccinated people per year
✔ Symptoms are milder: Fewer blisters (often <50), no/mild fever, faster recovery
✔ Still contagious, but less so than regular chickenpox
✔ 2 doses provide stronger protection than 1 dose
The vaccine remains the best protection against severe chickenpox and its complications.
How Effective Is the Chickenpox Vaccine?
Vaccine Protection Rates
| Doses Received | Protection Against Any Chickenpox | Protection Against Severe Chickenpox |
|---|---|---|
| 1 dose | ~85% | ~97% |
| 2 doses | ~90-98% | ~99% |
Source: CDC data on Varicella vaccine effectiveness
Why Do Breakthrough Infections Happen?
- Waning immunity (protection decreases slightly over time)
- Vaccine didn’t create full immunity in some individuals
- Exposure to a very large dose of the virus
Symptoms: Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Chickenpox
Typical Chickenpox (Unvaccinated)
- 250-500 itchy blisters
- High fever (101-103°F)
- Lasts 7-10 days
- Higher risk of complications (pneumonia, encephalitis)
Breakthrough Chickenpox (Vaccinated)
- Fewer than 50 blisters
- Mild or no fever
- Lasts 3-5 days
- Rarely leads to complications
💡 Many breakthrough cases are so mild they’re mistaken for bug bites!
Is Breakthrough Chickenpox Contagious?
- Yes, but less contagious than regular chickenpox
- Can spread from 2 days before rash appears until all blisters scab over
- High-risk individuals (newborns, pregnant women, immunocompromised) should avoid exposure
What Should You Do If Vaccinated But Get Chickenpox?
- Confirm diagnosis (doctor may do blood test or viral culture)
- Stay home until all blisters scab (usually 3-5 days)
- Use calamine lotion or oatmeal baths for itching
- Give acetaminophen (never aspirin for children)
- Watch for complications:
- Blisters leaking pus (sign of infection)
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headache or confusion
FAQs
1. How common is chickenpox after vaccination?
- About 1-4% of vaccinated people per year get mild breakthrough cases.
2. Can my vaccinated child spread chickenpox?
- Yes, but less easily than an unvaccinated child with chickenpox.
3. Do I need a booster if I get breakthrough chickenpox?
- No, the infection acts like a natural booster to your immunity.
4. Can adults get breakthrough chickenpox?
- Yes, especially if they only had 1 vaccine dose as a child.
5. Does the vaccine protect against shingles?
- Yes! Vaccinated people are much less likely to get shingles later in life.
The Bottom Line
While no vaccine is 100% effective, the chickenpox vaccine:
✅ Prevents almost all severe cases
✅ Makes breakthrough infections much milder
✅ Reduces shingles risk
If you suspect chickenpox after vaccination:
- Monitor symptoms
- Call your doctor if symptoms worsen
- Stay home to avoid spreading it
For more vaccine and health information, visit QnA Doseway!
