Chickenpox is a highly communicable illness, seen most commonly in children under the age of 15, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Typically this illness is mild but it can lead to several serious complications such as brain swelling, pneumonia and skin infections. It is impossible to predict which children will get sicker than others, which is why doctors routinely administer the chickenpox vaccine to children over the age of one year.
Injection Effects
The most common side effects of the chickenpox vaccine occur at the site of the injection. The rate of occurrence for soreness, redness or swelling is about 20 percent of all recipients, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Rash
Following the vaccination, between 1 and 4 percent of patients develop a mild rash or small bumps, according to the CDC. The immunization contains a small, weakened sample of the live virus. The body builds immunity by fighting off the virus, but in a few cases the rash develops. In rare cases, the virus can be transmitted to others, especially those with a compromised immune system.
Fever and Seizure
Patients receiving the vaccine may develop a mild fever two weeks after the vaccination. Fewer than 1 out of 1000 individuals receiving the immunization will experience seizures, possibly due to the fever. However, the CDC points out that the seizures may not be related to the vaccine itself.
Reye's Syndrome
The manufacturer of the chickenpox vaccine warns against using aspirin products after receiving the vaccine due to the potential for Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially deadly reaction. The National Institutes of Health points out that it generally occurs during a viral infection, following the use of aspirin. Onset is sudden and includes symptoms like persistent vomiting, listlessness, convulsions, loss of consciousness and irritability.
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