After what age is the chickenpox vaccine no longer needed?

Generally speaking, the varicella vaccine is not strictly off-limits after a certain age. Most adults who have completed the recommended vaccination schedule during childhood do not need additional doses. However, unvaccinated adults who belong to high-risk groups should still receive the vaccine. The details are as follows:

In China, the routine varicella vaccination schedule recommends one dose for children aged 1–12 years, with some regions requiring a booster dose at ages 4–6. After completing the vaccination series in childhood, individuals typically develop long-lasting immunity, making the likelihood of contracting chickenpox in adulthood extremely low; therefore, additional vaccination is usually unnecessary. However, if an individual did not complete the recommended doses during childhood, they should assess their need for catch-up vaccination as an adult based on their personal circumstances.

For adults who have never received the varicella vaccine—especially healthcare workers, teachers, and others frequently exposed to crowds, as well as those with weakened immune systems—vaccination is still recommended even at older ages. Varicella virus tends to cause more severe illness in adults, with more serious symptoms and higher risks of complications. Vaccination can effectively reduce infection risk and prevent complications.

In daily life, it is important to avoid close contact with individuals infected with chickenpox, maintain good personal hygiene habits, wash hands frequently, and ensure proper indoor ventilation. Children should complete their vaccinations on schedule, and adults who are unsure about their vaccination history can proactively check their immunization records or undergo antibody testing.