Varicella (Chickenpox) Immunity
This blood test measures IgG antibodies to determine if individuals have immunity to varicella-zoster virus (chickenpox) through previous infection or vaccination.
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Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test detects IgG antibodies to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the pathogen responsible for both chickenpox (primary infection) and shingles (reactivation of latent virus later in life). The presence of varicella IgG antibodies indicates that the immune system has previously encountered the virus, either through natural chickenpox infection or through vaccination, and has developed protective immunity.
After primary infection or vaccination, IgG antibodies persist in the bloodstream and provide long-term protection against reinfection with chickenpox. The virus itself remains dormant in nerve tissue for life and can reactivate as shingles in some individuals, but that reactivation is a different clinical event from a new chickenpox infection. This test is frequently ordered to verify immunity for healthcare workers, individuals entering educational programs, pregnant individuals (since primary varicella infection during pregnancy poses risks to the fetus), and anyone who is uncertain whether they had chickenpox as a child or completed the vaccination series.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Healthcare workers and those working in childcare settings may need this test to document immunity status before employment, as these environments often require proof of varicella immunity.
- Pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy should consider this test, as chickenpox during pregnancy can cause serious complications for both mother and baby.
- Immunocompromised patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplantation, may benefit from knowing their immunity status to help prevent exposure to varicella-zoster virus.
- Individuals with unclear vaccination history or those who cannot remember having chickenpox may want this test to determine if they need vaccination.
- Adults who work in schools, hospitals, or other high-exposure environments may require documentation of varicella immunity as part of occupational health requirements.
- International travelers to areas where chickenpox is common may want to verify their immunity status before travel.
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. No fasting is necessary, and individuals can take medications as normal unless specifically advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.
Sample Type
The test requires a simple blood draw from a vein, typically from the arm. The procedure takes just a few minutes and involves inserting a small needle to collect the blood sample.
Collection
At the lab location, a trained phlebotomist will clean the skin, insert a needle into a vein, and collect the required blood sample into a tube. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site afterward.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-2 business days after the sample reaches the laboratory, and no doctor visit is required to receive results.
Understanding your results
Results are reported as positive or negative based on a signal-to-cutoff ratio. A positive result (typically at or above 1.00 S/CO) indicates that varicella-zoster IgG antibodies are present, confirming immunity through prior infection or vaccination. A negative result (below 1.00 S/CO) indicates no detectable protective antibodies, meaning the individual is considered susceptible to chickenpox and may benefit from vaccination. Healthcare providers use this result to guide immunization decisions, assess risk in occupational or clinical settings, and counsel individuals about their immune status.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All ages | ≤0.99 S/CO: Negative; ≥1.00 S/CO: Positive | Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories, but positive results generally indicate protective immunity |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A negative result suggests that the individual may not have immunity to varicella-zoster virus and could be susceptible to chickenpox infection. A negative IgG result indicates the absence of prior exposure to VZV and non-immunity, though a negative result does not rule out VZV infection as the specimen may have been drawn before the appearance of detectable antibodies. Individuals with negative results may benefit from varicella vaccination if recommended by their healthcare provider.
What does a “High” result mean?
A positive result typically indicates that the individual has immunity to varicella-zoster virus, suggesting either past infection with chickenpox or successful vaccination. A positive IgG result coupled with a negative IgM result indicates previous vaccination to or infection with VZV, and these individuals are considered to have protective immunity to reinfection. This usually means no further vaccination is needed and the person is protected against developing chickenpox.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your varicella immunity test results are completely confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are not shared with your personal doctor unless you choose to share them, not added to your medical records, and will not appear on insurance EOBs since no insurance billing is involved.
Frequently asked questions
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Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 86787
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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