Chickenpox is one of the most commonly associated illnesses with childhood, with more than 90% of the UK population experiencing chickenpox by the age of 12[i]. Boots UK has extended its* private Chickenpox Vaccination Service to more stores across the UK, following a successful trial last year.

Chickenpox is highly contagious and can spread through coughing, sneezing and direct contact with those who are infected. With 651,000 reported cases of chickenpox in the UK each year[ii], Boots UK is helping children avoid the virus and parents to avoid an estimated average 5.7 day off work to care for them, by giving an option to easily access a vaccination service.  

The NHS does not offer a universal childhood vaccination service against chickenpox however, to protect those who are at most risk of serious illness from chickenpox, the NHS do vaccinate certain individuals such as people who come into close contact with someone who has a weakened immune system.The Boots Chickenpox Vaccination Service is for people who may wish to consider getting vaccinated outside of the NHS.

Asif Aziz, Director of Pharmacy Services Boots UK, comments: “We’re continually developing our pharmacy services offer in the UK and, after a successful trial in 30 stores last year, we are delighted to be able to extend the Boots Chickenpox Vaccination Service in 294 of our stores.

“The service will provide customers with self-management advice and education on the warning signs of the complications associated with chickenpox, and will ensure more adults and children across the UK have access to this important vaccination. It is also a fantastic example of how community pharmacists can use their clinical skills to support patients’ health in locations and at times that are convenient to them.”

The course consists of two vaccinations and the Boots Chickenpox Vaccination Service costs £75 per vaccination, or £140 if purchased together upfront. The service is suitable for adults and children aged 1-65 years***, with the appointment lasting approximately 25 minutes for the first appointment and 20 minutes for the second appointment. If the Boots Chickenpox Vaccination Service is suitable, two vaccinations will be given a minimum of 6 weeks apart.

 

Customers and patients can find their nearest store and book an appointment online: www.boots.com/chickenpox.

*Available in 294 stores by March 2019.

**Always read the label

***Subject to pharmacist and stock availability. Available in selected Boots stores. Eligibility criteria and charges apply

 

[i] World Health organization, 2014

[ii] http://www.valueinhealthjournal.com/article/S1098-3015(15)04030-9/fulltext