Specimen: Blood

Results: 1-3 business days

Description: The Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a herpes virus that causes both chickenpox and shingles. This IgG blood test is used to determine whether or not an individual has been vaccinated for the VZV. Chickenpox (varicella) is characterized by itchy blisters that form a rash. The chickenpox infection leads to immunity from varicella in the future, but the virus remains latent within certain nerves cells in the body and can reactivate later as shingles. Shingles (herpes zoster) produces a very painful rash in older adults or individuals with compromised immune systems. VZV can spread to fetuses and result in congenital heart disease of the infant.

*Please note: The result turn around time is an estimate only and not guaranteed. The reference lab may need additional time due to conditions with the weather, confirmation or repeat testing, or equipment maintenance and other reasons out of our control.