Tesco Pharmacy vaccinations
Tesco Pharmacy flu jab service will be back in September
Which vaccinations are available?
More about our chickenpox vaccine service
Check if you're suitable for a chickenpox vaccination
The vaccine is not suitable for anyone who is preganant or breastfeeding, or for people with a weakened immune system. Also, children who have had the MMR vaccine in the previous 4 weeks should not have the chickenpox vaccine. The service is available to people aged between 1 and 65 years.
How to book an appointment
Book online using the button above. Alternatively, ask at a Tesco Pharmacy when shopping in-store.
The cost of the service
A single vaccination is £70. The full course of 2 vaccinations (4-8 weeks apart) is £140.
What to expect from your appointment
Your appointment will take place in one of our private consultation rooms, at an in-store Tesco Pharmacy. The vaccination course is made up of 2 vaccinations, given 4-8 weeks apart. We'll schedule your second vaccination after your first appointment. Your vaccinations will be delivered by a trained Tesco pharmacist. The vaccine will be given as an injection in the upper arm for older children and adults, or in the thigh for younger children. The appointment will take around 20 minutes.
Chickenpox vaccination FAQs
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It usually causes an itchy rash, fever and tiredness. Although it's typically mild in children, it can lead to complications in adults and vulnerable groups.
Common symptoms
The main symptom of chickenpox is an itchy, spotty rash, which can be anywhere on the body. The spots form blisters, which dry up and then scab. Before or after the rash appears, you might also have:
- a high temperature
- aches and pains, and generally feel unwell
- a loss of appetite
Who is at risk?
Chickenpox can affect all ages, but it’s most commonly caught in childhood. Some people, such as pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system, have a higher risk of complications if they catch chickenpox.
How well does the chickenpox vaccination work?
The chickenpox vaccine is very effective. Two doses of the vaccine provide about 98% protection in children and about 75% protection in teenagers and adults. Even if someone vaccinated does get chickenpox, it's usually milder than in people who haven't been vaccinated.
Can I have a vaccination if I feel unwell?
If you have a high temperature or feel unwell, wait until you're feeling better before having your vaccination.
Are children or adults eligible for a free NHS vaccination?
Currently, vaccination against chickenpox is not routinely available to patients on the NHS.
Are there any side effects from the vaccine?
The most common side effects of the chickenpox vaccine are mild and get better within a few days. They can include:
- pain or soreness where the injection was given
- fever (a body temperature over 37.5C)
It's a good idea to check your/your child's body temperature and give paracetamol, if needed.
Is there anything else I need to know about my appointment?
For adults and older children, the vaccination will be given in the upper arm, so it’s helpful to wear short sleeves or loose sleeves that can be rolled up. With younger children, the vaccine will be given in the thigh.
*Eligibility criteria apply. Subject to availability in selected stores only. All services are at the discretion of the pharmacist.