The varicella vaccine is a vaccine that protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection. Chickenpox causes an itchy rash, fever, and fatigue, and can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is usually given to children in two doses, helping to prevent the disease and its potential complications. Receiving the varicella vaccine not only protects the individual but also helps to create herd immunity in the community. This means that when a large number of people are vaccinated, it reduces the overall spread of the virus, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and certain patients.