In general, vaccines are regarded safe since such substance is not suspected to give an up-regulation of the heme biosynthesis as a direct effect. However, some vaccines can lead to a reaction with high fever persisting over days as a side effect. It is possible that this side effect can trigger an acute porphyric attack in the same way as infections are known to. Vigilance is therefore motivated when administrating a vaccine known to cause reactions with fever.

Fever is reported as a very common side effect of the varicella vaccine.

Based on the pharmacokinetics of the varicella, live attenuated vaccine, there are no conceivable porphyrinogenic effects.

Live attenuated varicella virus.

The varicella vaccine is indicated for active immunization against varicella in individuals from 12 months of age. The vaccine is administered by two intramuscular or subcutaneous injections.

The varicella vaccine is not metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system.