Varicella

What is it?

A highly contagious virus commonly known as chickenpox

What do I need?

Proof of two doses of vaccine, or serology showing immunity

How long will it take?

Up to three months

Varicella is a highly contagious virus that can cause chickenpox. The main symptom is a blistering skin rash, and the virus is spread through coughing and sneezing or from touching the fluid from the blisters on the skin of an infected person. While this is typically a childhood disease, it is still contagious in adults and can have more serious side effects, including potentially causing shingles.

Requirements

You may have already received vaccinations against varicella. Check any available vaccination records like your Medicare Immunisation History statement or speak to your doctor about your vaccination history to ensure your Medicare statement is complete.

If your vaccination records show at least two doses of a brand of varicella vaccine, and the vaccine brand is currently accepted in the Australian Immunisation Handbook, we can accept this as valid evidence of immunity.

If your records are incomplete or your records do not specify the actual brand of vaccine, or if you have a prior history of varicella, then your doctor may recommend having serology done. This serology can also be accepted as valid evidence of immunity.

Evidence

Upload a copy of either of the following:

  • Vaccination record showing two doses of an acceptable brand(s) of Varicella vaccine with dates and accepted brands listed

OR

  • Results of a serology test showing proof of immunity

More details

  • Overseas records can be accepted for measles, mumps and rubella as long as they meet the following requirements:

    • Documents must be in English (translated documents will not be accepted).
    • Vaccination records must clearly show the dates and the brand names of vaccines administered.
    • Vaccination brands are aligned with the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

    If your records do not meet these requirements, talk to your doctor about getting a serology test.

    Overseas serology

    Overseas serology is acceptable if the testing was performed in a facility accredited to the appropriate standard. Eligible facilities must be accredited to the ISO15189 standard for medical testing by an accreditation body that is recorded as a signatory to the ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangement. Your doctor should be able to confirm this.

    Serology tests should show the threshold levels employed by the lab where your tests were conducted.

  • There may be a variety of reasons why you are unable to achieve immunity to measles, mumps or rubella, including an existing medical condition, or being non-responsive to vaccinations or blood tests. This does not mean that you will be unable to attend placement.

    If you can’t achieve immunity, please ask your doctor for a written statement advising the following:

    • That there are medical reasons preventing you from achieving immunity
    • That risk management advice has been provided
    • Any recommended infection control mechanisms the University should be aware of

Ready to submit your documents? Go to Sonia.

Still have questions? Contact the MDHS Student Hub.

Further information