Chickenpox Test

This blood test measures antibodies to the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles. If you are unsure about having chickenpox or shingles infection in the past, require evidence of immunity for school or work, or are planning to travel internationally, the herpes zoster and varicella titer test is meant for you.

A positive result means that antibodies to VZV were detected, consistent with infection or vaccination. Most people with detectable IgG antibodies have developed immune protection against chickenpox and shingles. However, since the test cannot distinguish between past and current infection, a positive result could also indicate active infection. It is important to consider current signs, symptoms, and medical history.

This test is not intended to confirm active infection and is not intended to diagnose current chickenpox or shingles. It also does not guarantee complete future protection – immunity can vary based on individual factors, timing of vaccination, and antibody levels.

No doctor’s visit needed.

The varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a highly contagious virus that can cause both varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles). Chickenpox is a contagious viral disease characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash. Initially, the rash appears on the chest, back, and face and then spreads across the body. After you have chickenpox, most people become immune to the virus for the rest of their lives, and they usually don’t get chickenpox again. However, the virus stays inactive in your body and can reactivate as shingles later in life. Shingles can cause a viral outbreak of a painful rash or blisters on the skin. Unlike chickenpox, shingles is not contagious. However, VZV is contagious and if you have shingles, you can spread the virus to another person, and they may develop chickenpox.


Prior to VZV vaccination, chickenpox was very common in the United States. The chickenpox vaccine uses a small amount of live VZV virus to help protect against chickenpox in individuals 12 months and older.


After being exposed to VZV through infection or vaccination, a person's immune system produces antibodies to help fight against the viral infection. Our Chickenpox Test measures the level of IgG antibodies in the blood produced in response to VZV due to a previous infection.

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