Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies
The Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies test checks for immunity to the varicella zoster virus. It shows whether you have had past infection or vaccination.
Turnaround time
4 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies
What is the Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies test?
The Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies test measures IgG antibodies against the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in the blood. IgG antibodies develop after previous infection with chickenpox or following vaccination and usually remain detectable long term.
This test does not diagnose an active infection. Instead, it confirms past exposure and immune status, which is important for clinical risk assessment, occupational screening, pregnancy planning, and vaccination decisions.
It is widely used in healthcare, occupational health, and pre-immunisation screening.
Why do I need a Varicella Zoster IgG Antibodies test?
Knowing your immunity status helps assess susceptibility to chickenpox and shingles-related complications, particularly in higher-risk situations.
You may need this test if you:
- Are unsure whether you had chickenpox
- Need proof of immunity for work or training
- Are planning pregnancy
- Are immunocompromised or starting immunosuppressive therapy
- Are a healthcare or care worker
- Need pre-vaccination assessment
- Had contact with someone with chickenpox or shingles
The test helps determine whether vaccination or additional precautions are required.
Benefits of the test
- Confirms immunity status
Identifies past infection or vaccination response. - Supports vaccination decisions
Helps determine if vaccination is needed. - Important in pregnancy planning
Identifies susceptibility before exposure. - Used in occupational screening
Common requirement in healthcare settings. - Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. - Widely clinically accepted
Standard serology test for VZV immunity. - Helps assess infection risk
Identifies individuals at risk of primary infection. - Clear and interpretable results
Provides definitive immune status information.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- Blood sample taken by a clinician
- Sample sent to the laboratory
- Results issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Mobile phlebotomist attends your location
- Blood sample taken at home or hotel
- No clinic visit required
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Negative IgG
- No detectable immunity
- UK standard (typical): Negative / <100 mIU/mL
- Suggests no prior infection or vaccination
- Individual may be susceptible to chickenpox
Positive IgG
- IgG antibodies detected
- UK standard (typical): Positive / ≥100 mIU/mL
- Indicates past infection or vaccination
- Suggests immunity to varicella zoster virus
Cut-off values may vary slightly between laboratories.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.