Why do I need a chickenpox or shingles test?
You may need a chickenpox or shingles test if you are at risk for complications, are not immune to VZV, and/or have symptoms of infection. Symptoms of the two diseases are similar and include:
Red, blistering rash. Chickenpox rashes often appear all over the body and are usually very itchy. Shingles sometimes appear in just one area and are often painful.
Fever
Headache
Sore throat
You may also need this test if you are in a high-risk group and were recently exposed to chickenpox or shingles. You can't catch shingles from another person. But the shingles virus (VZV) can be spread and cause chickenpox in someone who doesn't have immunity.
