Skip to main content

KingCounty.gov is an official government website.

Official government websites use .gov
Website addresses ending in .gov belong to official government organizations in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Only share sensitive information on official, secure websites.
King County Washington home

Chickenpox (varicella)

Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The virus spreads mainly through close contact with someone who has chickenpox. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.

Short URL: kingcounty.gov/chickenpox

What is it?

Chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. Signs of chickenpox will start 10-21 days after exposure. The main signs are:

  • Itchy rash of blisters
  • Loss of appetite
  • Feeling very tired
  • Fever

How does it spread?

  • Someone with chickenpox talks, coughs, or sneezes around others.
  • Another person touches blisters or contaminated objects.

Who is at risk of getting very sick?

  • Babies
  • Teens and adults
  • Pregnant people
  • People with a weak immune system

How can I avoid spreading it to others?

  • Wash hands with soap and water
  • Do not share food, utensils, and personal items
  • Keep blisters covered with clothes
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces
  • Stay home and away from others when sick.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox

Children, teens and adults need 2 doses of vaccine if they are not already immune. Talk to your health care provider about vaccination, if you are sick, or if you were exposed to chickenpox.

Who should get vaccinated?

Who needs to get vaccinated?

Babies and toddlers

Young children
When to get vaccinated?

First dose: 12-15 months

Second dose: 4-6 years

What should I do if my child or I are not immune to chickenpox?

If you have never been vaccinated or hand chickenpox disease, it's not too late to get protection! Talk to your healthcare provider about catching up.

Who needs to get vaccinated?

Children 12 year and younger

People 13 years and older
How long should I wait between dose #1 and #2?

3 months

4-8 weeks

Who should not get chickenpox vaccines?

  • Pregnant people
  • People who may be allergic
  • People with a weak immune system or severe illness

How safe are chickenpox vaccines?

They are very safe for most people. Like any other medicine, chickenpox vaccine can have side effects. These are usually mild and go away on their own. Side effects may include:

  • Soreness where vaccine was given
  • Mild rash
  • Fever

Talk to your health care provider about getting vaccinated. Visit kingcounty.gov/findaclinic for vaccination options near you.

Downloadable fact sheets in multiple languages