FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Varilrix^® (live attenuated varicella vaccine) is available as an injection.  Varilrix is a private-purchase prescription medicine for immunisation and prophylaxis against varicella (chickenpox) in adults and children older than 9 months. You will need to pay for this medicine.  Children aged 13 years and older need two doses with an interval between doses of at least 6 weeks. Two doses at least 6 weeks apart are also recommended for children aged between 9 months and 12 years, to provide optimal protection. Use strictly as directed.  Do not have a Varilrix injection if you are allergic to Varilrix or to the antibiotic neomycin, if you have a high fever, if you have a condition that causes lack of immunocompetence, or if you are pregnant.  Pregnancy should be avoided for 3 months after vaccination.  Tell your doctor before you have the vaccine if you have a lowered resistance to disease or have a severe chronic disease.  Common side effects: mild rash, a small number of chicken-pox-like blisters, or pain, redness and swelling at the injection site. Uncommon side effects include fever, headache, cough, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain.  If you have any side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, or health professional.  Additional Consumer Medicine Information for Varilrix is available at www.medsafe.govt.nz.  Prices for Varilrix may vary across doctor's clinics.  Normal doctor's office visit fees apply.  Ask your doctor if Varilrix is right for you.

Varilrix is a registered trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited, Auckland.

Adverse events involving GSK products should be reported to GSK Medical Information on 0800 808 500.