Full Name: Varicella Vaccine (Live, Attenuated) I.P. – Oka Strain Manufacturer: GSK (GlaxoSmithKline) | Form: Powder and Solvent for Suspension for Injection Pack: 0.5 mL after reconstitution (single-dose vial + diluent) | Route: Subcutaneous (SC) | MRP: ₹2,418 (incl. all taxes)
VARILRIX is a live attenuated varicella (chickenpox) vaccine based on the well-studied Oka strain, manufactured by GSK. After reconstitution with the supplied diluent, a single 0.5 mL dose is given subcutaneously. A complete 2-dose schedule provides strong, long-lasting protection against chickenpox and significantly reduces the risk of moderate-to-severe disease, complications and household transmission. It is recommended for children, adolescents and adults who have not had chickenpox or a prior varicella vaccine.
🛡️ Who Should Get VARILRIX?
Children (9 months+) – IAP recommends the first dose from 15 months of age
Adolescents & Adults – Without a documented history of chickenpox or prior vaccination
Women planning pregnancy – Complete vaccination at least 1 month before conception (not to be given during pregnancy)
💉 VARILRIX Composition (Per 0.5 mL Reconstituted Dose)
Component
Quantity
Varicella virus (live, attenuated), Oka strain
≥ 103.3 PFU (plaque-forming units)
Produced in
MRC-5 human diploid cells
Neomycin sulfate
Trace amount (residual from manufacturing)
Excipients
Amino acids, lactose, sorbitol, mannitol
Solvent (diluent)
Water for injection
Figures are as per the GSK manufacturer package insert available at the time of publishing. Please refer to the current package insert / consult your physician for the latest information.
📅 Dose Schedule
Children under 13 years: 2 doses, minimum 3 months apart (IAP schedule: Dose 1 at 15 months, Dose 2 at 4–6 years)
Individuals 13 years & older (including adults): 2 doses, 6–10 weeks apart (minimum gap 4 weeks)
Catch-up vaccination: Can be given at any age to unvaccinated children/adults without prior evidence of immunity
🏥 Why Book VARILRIX with VacciHub?
👩⚕️ Certified Nurse Subcutaneous injection by trained staff
❄️ Cold Chain 2–8°C Potency guaranteed, reconstituted just before injection
✅ 100% Genuine GSK Sourced from authorised distributors
🏠 Home Comfort No clinic visit – lower exposure to other infections
⚠️ Side Effects
VARILRIX is generally well tolerated. Common mild effects include injection-site pain, redness, swelling and mild fever. Occasionally, a few chickenpox-like spots may appear at the injection site or elsewhere within 2–4 weeks – this is usually mild and self-limiting. Serious reactions are rare.
🚫 Precautions
Not to be given during pregnancy; avoid conception for 1 month after vaccination
Avoid in individuals with severe immunodeficiency or active untreated tuberculosis
Avoid if there is a known allergy to neomycin
Defer vaccination during high fever or acute illness
Avoid aspirin/salicylate use for 6 weeks after vaccination, as a general precaution with varicella vaccination