Question 1

What is Varicella (Chickenpox)?

Accepted Answer

Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious viral infection characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash that spreads across the body. It is caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), which spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with the rash. The Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibodies, IgG test is the most important test for determining immunity status and confirming past infection or successful vaccination.

Question 2

What causes chickenpox?

Accepted Answer

Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), a highly contagious member of the herpesvirus family. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and through direct contact with fluid from chickenpox blisters. Once you are infected, the virus enters the body through the respiratory tract or mucous membranes and then spreads throughout the bloodstream, causing the characteristic itchy rash and flu-like symptoms within 10-21 days of exposure.

Question 3

What is the best test for chickenpox immunity?

Accepted Answer

The Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibodies, IgG test is the most important test for chickenpox because it detects IgG antibodies that indicate whether you have immunity to the virus. When these antibodies are present in your blood, it means you have either had chickenpox in the past or were successfully vaccinated against it, and you are now protected from future infection. This test is essential for healthcare workers, pregnant women, teachers, and anyone who needs to verify their immunity status before potential exposure to the virus.

Question 4

When should I get tested for chickenpox immunity?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and are unsure of your immunity status, work in healthcare or childcare settings with high exposure risk, have been exposed to someone with active chickenpox and do not know if you are immune, or need to verify immunity for school, employment, or immigration requirements. Testing is particularly important for adults who never had chickenpox as a child, since the infection can be more severe in adults and poses serious risks to unborn babies if contracted during pregnancy.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of chickenpox?

Accepted Answer

Chickenpox symptoms typically begin with fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite, followed 1-2 days later by the characteristic itchy rash. The rash starts as small red bumps that quickly develop into fluid-filled blisters, which eventually crust over and heal. The rash usually appears first on the face, chest, and back, then spreads to the rest of the body, including the scalp, mouth, and even eyelids. You may have several hundred blisters, and new spots continue to appear for several days while older ones are healing, creating a mix of bumps, blisters, and scabs at the same time.

Question 6

Who is at risk for chickenpox?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who has not had chickenpox or received the varicella vaccine is at risk, but young children under age 12 are most commonly affected. People with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, newborns, and adults who never had chickenpox face higher risks of severe complications. Healthcare workers, teachers, daycare staff, and parents of young children also have increased exposure risk. The virus is extremely contagious, with about 90% of non-immune household contacts developing the infection after exposure to someone with active chickenpox.

Question 7

What happens if chickenpox is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Chickenpox usually resolves on its own in healthy children within 1-2 weeks, but leaving it unmanaged can lead to serious complications. Bacterial skin infections can develop when blisters are scratched and become infected with Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria, potentially leading to cellulitis or even sepsis. More severe complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), bleeding problems, and in rare cases, death, particularly in adults, pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals. Additionally, after recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate later in life as shingles, causing painful nerve inflammation and rash.

Question 8

Can chickenpox immunity be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, chickenpox immunity can be accurately diagnosed with a blood test that measures Varicella-Zoster Virus IgG antibodies. When these antibodies are present in your blood, it confirms that you have immunity from either past infection or vaccination, and you are protected against future chickenpox infection. This blood test is more reliable than relying on memory of childhood illness, especially since many people are unsure whether they actually had chickenpox or another similar viral rash. The test is particularly valuable for adults who need documentation of immunity for employment, pregnancy planning, or other medical reasons.

Question 9

How is chickenpox treated?

Accepted Answer

Chickenpox treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications while the virus runs its course. Over-the-counter antihistamines and calamine lotion help relieve itching, while acetaminophen can reduce fever (avoid aspirin in children due to Reye syndrome risk). Keeping fingernails short and wearing gloves at night helps prevent scratching and secondary bacterial infections. For high-risk patients, adults, or severe cases, antiviral medications like acyclovir may be prescribed within the first 24 hours of rash onset to reduce severity and duration. People with active chickenpox should stay home and avoid contact with others, especially pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals, until all blisters have crusted over.

Question 10

How can I prevent chickenpox?

Accepted Answer

The chickenpox vaccine is the most effective prevention method, providing about 90% protection against the disease and nearly 100% protection against severe cases. The CDC recommends two doses for children: the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years of age, with catch-up vaccination available for older children and adults who have never had chickenpox. Avoiding contact with infected individuals is also important, as the virus is contagious from 1-2 days before the rash appears until all blisters have crusted over. If you are exposed to chickenpox and are not immune, post-exposure vaccination within 3-5 days or immune globulin treatment may help prevent or reduce the severity of infection.

Question 11

What can I do at home for chickenpox?

Accepted Answer

At home, take lukewarm baths with colloidal oatmeal or baking soda every 3-4 hours to soothe itchy skin, and pat dry gently rather than rubbing. Apply calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda and water directly to blisters for itch relief, and keep the infected person cool since heat and sweating worsen itching. Dress in loose, lightweight cotton clothing and keep the home environment cool and humid. Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, and provide soft, bland foods if mouth sores develop. Keep children distracted with quiet activities to reduce scratching, and trim fingernails short to minimize skin damage if scratching occurs.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
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                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Chickenpox (Varicella) Blood Test

What is Varicella (Chickenpox)?

What causes chickenpox?

What is the best test for chickenpox immunity?

When should I get tested for chickenpox immunity?

References

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