Varicella vaccine for HIV

Overview
People with HIV are at greater risk for infections. You can help protect your health by ensuring that your vaccination for Varicella (chicken pox) is up to date. You may need a Varicella vaccination if you were born in or after 1980 or if you have not received two doses of the vaccine.

What does it involve?
Varicella vaccinations are given intramuscularly. Ask your doctor about getting a Varicella shot.

Constraints
Very rarely, someone has a severe allergic reaction to the Varicella vaccination. Also rarely, some people develop herpes zoster (shingles) after receiving a Varicella shot. Your shoulder or arm may feel sore for a day or two after receiving a Varicella shot. You may experience itching or swelling at the site of the injection. Some people experience mild flu-like symptoms for a day or two after receiving a Varicella shot. Symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, fever, and skin rash.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

HIV Infection and Adult Vaccination – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention