Dr. Darya Namazova, an infectious disease specialist, points out that while re-infection with chickenpox in a person with a healthy immune system is theoretically possible, it remains extremely rare.
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According to her, most people develop long-term immunity after contracting chickenpox, which protects them from recurring infection.
She stated: "The varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox, does not completely disappear from the body after recovery; instead, it remains dormant in the nerve ganglia."
The doctor warned that if the immune system weakens, the virus can reactivate, causing shingles (herpes zoster). The disease typically begins with a burning sensation, pain, or skin hypersensitivity, followed by clusters of blisters appearing in a specific area of the body along the path of one or more nerves, usually on one side of the body.
She added: "The risk of virus reactivation and shingles increases among immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV infection or hematologic malignancies, as well as following organ transplants, during chemotherapy and radiation therapy, with prolonged use of immunosuppressive drugs—including high doses of corticosteroids—and among older adults, particularly those over the age of 50."
She warned that a person with shingles is contagious and can transmit the virus to someone who has never had chickenpox and has not been vaccinated, which could lead to that individual contracting chickenpox for the first time.
She said: "If a person has not had chickenpox and has not been vaccinated, they are at risk of primary infection upon contact with an infected individual. Pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals are most vulnerable to developing severe forms of the disease and its complications."
She explained that if a person is uncertain about a past infection or vaccination status, a blood test can be performed to detect IgG antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The presence of these antibodies indicates prior infection or vaccination and acquired immunity, whereas their absence suggests a need for the chickenpox vaccine—preferably administered within the first three to five days following exposure.
She noted that the chickenpox vaccine is contraindicated for pregnant women and individuals with severe immunodeficiency, or may require a specialized medical evaluation prior to administration.
The doctor advised consulting a physician upon the appearance of a skin rash, especially if accompanied by fever, severe pain, or general weakness, or after contact with an infected individual. She emphasized that antiviral treatment is most effective when initiated early and prescribed based on medical indication and condition.
(RT)
