Chickenpox can recur, but it’s uncommon. Most people develop lifelong immunity after the first illness, so a repeat infection is rare. Factors that can increase the chance of a second infection include a very mild initial illness, a weakened immune system, or conditions that impair immune response. It’s also worth noting that the varicella-zoster virus remains in the body and can reactivate later in life as shingles, which is related but not the same as a new chickenpox infection. Key points to understand:
- Likelihood: After a first chickenpox infection, immunity is typically lifelong, making a true second chickenpox infection uncommon for otherwise healthy individuals.
- Exceptions: Immunocompromised people or those with certain medical conditions may have a higher risk of a second infection.
- Distinction: A later outbreak of a painful rash in someone who previously had chickenpox is often shingles (herpes zoster), caused by reactivation of the same virus in nerve tissue, not a new chickenpox case in most circumstances.
- Vaccination: Varicella vaccination can prevent illness or lessen its severity if exposure occurs, and is part of public health strategies to reduce both primary chickenpox and, indirectly, shingles risk later in life.
If you or someone you know suspects a second chickenpox infection, or if there’s any uncertainty about symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation and possible testing.
