Chickenpox and Shingles Tests
Reviewed
Also called: varicella zoster virus antibody, serum varicella immunoglobulin G antibody level, VZV antibodies IgG and IgM, herpes zoster test
Chickenpox and shingles tests check to see if you are or have ever been infected with the varicella zoster virus (VZV).
Specimen: Blood (from a vein) or fluid from a blister (swab)
Why this test may be ordered
- To confirm a diagnosis of chickenpox or shingles when symptoms are not clear or the person is at higher risk of complications
- To check immunity to VZV (e.g., before pregnancy, before immunosuppressive therapy, or after exposure)
Preparation and collection
You don't need any special preparations for a blood or blister test.
You will need to provide a sample of blood from your vein or from the fluid in one of your blisters. Blood tests check for antibodies to the VZV. Blister tests check for the virus itself. Both tests are quick, each usually taking less than five minutes.
After a blood test, you may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly. There is no risk to having a blister test.
Understanding results
Testing for VZV involves checking for VZV in a blood, fluid, or tissue sample.
- Virus or antibodies found, with symptoms: If you have symptoms and your test results show VZV antibodies or the virus itself, it's likely you have chickenpox or shingles. Limitation: Your diagnosis of either chickenpox or shingles will depend on your age and specific symptoms. Next step: If you are diagnosed with an infection and are in a high-risk group, your provider may prescribe antiviral medicines. Early treatment can prevent serious and painful complications.
- Virus or antibodies found, no symptoms: If you don't have symptoms and your results show antibodies to the virus or the virus itself, you either had chickenpox at one point or received the chickenpox vaccine. Limitation: Later in life, the virus can become active again and cause shingles. Next step: If you have questions about your results or your child's results, talk to your provider.
- PCR and DFA tests on swab samples are more accurate than viral culture, but false negatives can occur if the sample is not taken from an active blister.
- Antibody tests (IgM, IgG) indicate past or recent infection but cannot distinguish between current chickenpox and shingles; diagnosis depends on symptoms and age.
What to do next
If you have questions about your results or your child's results, talk to your provider.
- Chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same virus (varicella zoster virus).
- You can have shingles more than once, but it is rare.
- The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults 50 and older, and for adults 19+ with weakened immune systems.
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.
U.S. National Library of Medicine: Chickenpox and Shingles Tests