Varicella Zoster Immunity Blood Test (Chickenpox)
Why would I need this test?
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a member of the herpes virus family, the primary infection is chickenpox. When you’re exposed to varicella zoster virus, your immune system responds by producing antibodies. Your body makes IgG antibodies many weeks after the infection or vaccination to give you long-term protection. This test confirms whether you have IgG antibodies against the chickenpox virus.
You may want to know your immunity status for personal or occupational health reasons. Immunocompromised individuals and infants are at a higher risk of complications from varicella, you may be asked to have the test to reduce the risk.
What will my sample be tested for?
Varicella zoster (chickenpox) antibodies (IgG)
Once you’re exposed to VZV, you have a measurable amount of VZV IgG antibodies in your blood for life. This test helps confirm a previous infection or immunity to VZV infection.
Information about preparing for your test
Fasting: You do NOT need to fast for this test
Appointment: Your appointment will be 20 minutes, as you don’t need to fast for the appointment you can make it for anytime of the day.
Cost: This blood test costs £79
How to Book: Follow the link to the Book Now portal and under Blood Tests select Superdrug Blood Test
Weekends: We don’t offer blood test appointments at weekends, this is to ensure they reach the laboratory as quickly as possible
Sample Return: After your appointment you will be asked to post your sample in a Royal Mail post box, it will be delivered to our lab the next working day.
Restrictions: This test is suitable for patients aged 16 years and over.
More tests required: Sometimes an employer can require a number of immunity tests, we offer Hepatitis B, Chickenpox and MMR IgG tests. If you need more than one at a time please let your nurse know. See the price list for price options.
For more information about our tests please look at our Frequently Asked Questions here.
Information about your results
Time for Results: Results are usually available in 2-5 days
Results: We work with a company called Thriva to deliver your blood test results. During your appointment an account will be set up for you and your test will be registered against this. When your results are ready you will be contacted by Thriva to go into your account and view your results. You will need an email address to complete this registration.
Sometimes not all results will be available, because there may have been a delay in receiving your sample or another reason. This is nothing to worry about. You will be contacted by either the Superdrug or the Thriva Customer teams who will advise on what we need to do. If you have any concerns please contact SD.Bloodtests@superdrug.com.