Chickenpox Immunity Test
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a highly contagious viral disease that causes the chickenpox, an itchy blister-like rash that can spread over the entire body. Before the introduction of the VZV vaccine, the disease was once a common infection of childhood.
This test can determine the status of your VZV immunity, which may be the result of either previous exposure to the illness or vaccination.
Preparation
No special preparation.
Why Consider This Test?
Rise in Outbreaks
Varicella outbreaks do still occur. Although outbreaks had declined for over a decade following the start of vaccination, there is evidence of a resurgence of chickenpox in recent years.2
Undetermined Immunity
While many people who grew up in the 1990s and later received a VZV vaccination, older individuals may not have.
This especially may be true if a person was thought to have already been infected with chickenpox before the vaccine became available. In some cases, this history may be unreliable as laboratory confirmation of chickenpox is not routinely performed.
Herd Immunity
Not everyone can receive VZV vaccinations. Unfortunately, this is also the group that may be most likely to develop severe or even life-threatening cases of chickenpox. By making sure you are immune, you can avoid spreading chickenpox and help protect these vulnerable people.
References
1. “Chickenpox (Varicella) – For Healthcare Professionals.” National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Division of Viral Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 31 Dec 18. https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/hcp/index.html
2. Andrada, Carolina. “The Resurgence of Chickenpox.” Outbreak Observatory, Center for Health Security, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. 22 Nov 18. https://www.outbreakobservatory.org/outbreakthursday-1/11/22/2018/the-re...
How To Get This Test
1. Choose your tests
Shop for tests and pay online. An independent physician will review and approve your test requests; no doctor’s visit is required.
2. Provide Your Sample
Take the requisition number we emailed you, along with a photo ID, to a Labcorp location for sample collection.
3. Access your results online
View your easy-to-read results online in your Pixel by Labcorp account. For certain results that require prompt attention, you will also be contacted by phone or mail.
Getting My Results
We've made getting your results easier and more convenient than ever. View your easy-to-read results online in your Pixel by Labcorp account. For certain results that require prompt attention, you will also be contacted by phone or mail. To view a sample report click the "sample report" button below.
