Chickenpox Immunity and Risks of Shingles After Infection

About Chickenpox (2)

Hello Dr.
Wu: Thank you for your previous response.
Regarding chickenpox, you mentioned that it is a matter of probability; the more exposure and the longer the duration, the greater the risk.
However, I would like to ask further, as I inquired with my family and found that I had chickenpox as a child.
Dr.
Wu, may I ask: 1.
Can I still be infected with chickenpox by that elementary school student? Does having had chickenpox provide lifelong immunity? 2.
If I cannot get chickenpox again, could I still exhibit other symptoms if exposed, such as shingles? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/29

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
Once a person has had chickenpox, they have lifelong immunity.
2.
Shingles occurs when an individual's immune system is weakened, leading to the reactivation of the latent virus, and is not related to exposure to the virus.

Reply Date: 2015/05/29

More Info

Understanding chickenpox immunity and the risks of shingles after infection is an important topic, especially for those who have had chickenpox in childhood. Let's break down your questions and provide a comprehensive overview.

1. Can you be infected with chickenpox again after having it once?
Once a person has had chickenpox, they typically develop immunity to the virus, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This immunity is generally long-lasting, meaning that most people will not get chickenpox again. However, there are rare cases where individuals can experience a second infection, particularly if their immune system is compromised or if they were very young during their initial infection. In such cases, the second infection may present with milder symptoms.

2. Does having chickenpox provide lifelong immunity?
Yes, for the majority of individuals, having chickenpox provides lifelong immunity. The immune system retains a memory of the virus, which helps to protect against future infections. However, it is important to note that while the risk of getting chickenpox again is low, the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles (herpes zoster).

3. What about shingles?
Shingles occurs when the dormant varicella-zoster virus reactivates, often many years after the initial chickenpox infection. This reactivation can happen due to various factors, including stress, aging, or a weakened immune system. Shingles typically presents as a painful rash that can occur anywhere on the body, often following a dermatomal pattern (along a nerve pathway). The pain can be severe and may persist even after the rash has healed, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

4. Can you catch shingles from someone with chickenpox?
You cannot catch shingles from someone who has shingles. However, if a person who has never had chickenpox comes into contact with the shingles rash, they can contract chickenpox from that exposure. This is because the shingles rash contains the live varicella-zoster virus.

5. Preventive measures and vaccination:
To reduce the risk of shingles, the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they have had chickenpox. This vaccine significantly lowers the risk of developing shingles and its complications. Additionally, the varicella vaccine is available for children and adults who have not had chickenpox, providing protection against the disease.

In summary, if you had chickenpox as a child, you are likely immune for life, but you are at risk for shingles later on. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of shingles and consult a healthcare provider if you suspect you may be experiencing them. Vaccination can further protect against shingles and its complications, making it a valuable option for older adults. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations based on your health history.

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