Thinking ahead...Chicken pox - DH hasn't had it. Is there a vaccine?

[jaykay987]

Hi

Not sure if this is the best place to post,but not sure where to put it.

We are thinking ahead, and in talking to DH to get prepared for going to my booking appointment, Ive found out DH has never had chicken pox.

I understand this can really dangerous if caught as an adult. Given there (fingers crossed)will be a baby in the house soon.....does any one know if there is a vaccine or something to help make sure DH doesn't get really sick?

Yes, but I don't know if it's for adults - worth a google

It's available for children and adults- two doses are needed as far as I recall.

Chickenpox can have a higher risk of complications in adults but generally more if their immune system is weakened or they are elderly. Your DH would be miserable but unlikely to be in danger should he get infected but the option of vaccination is certainly there.

I think it's given as part of the childhood immunisations in the US but not included here as it's more economical to throw a chickenpox party and let them develop immunity themselves (despite "chickenpops" being no picnic from what I remember as a child).

I'm currently 38+3 and I've never had chicken pox either, midwife at my booking appointment seemed to think it irrelevant but DH started telling me how bad it can be as adults so I'm pretty glad to hear there's a vaccine! I think I will be asking about that after the little guy is born

NHS information on the Chickenpox (varicella) vaccine

I had the vaccine as an adult. Two doses, no problems.

thanks for the comments. All very useful.