Varicella zoster virus (chickenpox and shingles) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test measures antibodies against varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and later shingles. Doctors order IgG to check immunity, for example before pregnancy or after contact with chickenpox, and IgM when a recent infection is suspected.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careChickenpox in pregnancy can be serious, so women without immunity are usually offered the vaccine before trying to conceive.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms whether immunity or recent infection is being checked
- 2A vein on your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle draws a tube of blood
- 4The lab measures varicella zoster IgG and or IgM
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive IgM usually suggests a recent or current infection and a positive IgG a past infection or immunity, but your doctor will read the result alongside your symptoms.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive IgG usually means you have had chickenpox or the vaccine and are protected. A negative IgG means you may not be immune, and a positive IgM can suggest a recent infection.
Who usually has this test
Women planning pregnancy who are unsure of past chickenpox, pregnant women after contact, and health workers.
Risks and aftercare
No special aftercare; if not immune and pregnant, tell your doctor promptly after any chickenpox contact.
Names and options
Also called: VZV IgG, VZV IgM, chickenpox antibody, varicella IgG, herpes zoster antibody
Options
- Varicella IgG
- Varicella IgM
- Herpes zoster (VZV) IgG
- Herpes zoster (VZV) IgM
Listed by the hospital as
- VARICELLA IGG ANTIBODY, SERUM
- VARICELLA IGM ANTIBODY, SERUM
- HERPES ZOSTER (VZV) IGG
- HERPES ZOSTER (VZV) IGM
Questions about this test
What should I do if I am pregnant and meet someone with chickenpox?
Contact your doctor straight away. If you are not immune, there are treatments that can lower the chance of serious illness if given soon after contact.
Can I get the chickenpox vaccine before IVF?
Yes, if you are not immune. It is a live vaccine given as two doses, and doctors usually advise avoiding pregnancy for a month after the last dose.
Does shingles show on this test?
Shingles is caused by the same virus reactivating. Antibody tests can support it, but shingles is usually diagnosed from the rash itself.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.