A test to measure Varicella Zoster (IgM) antibodies in the blood to investigate an infection.
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Immunity
Varicella zoster IgM
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Varicella zoster is the virus which causes chickenpox, following the initial infection it can lie dormant in the spinal cord, reactivating to cause shingles. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies are produced by the immune system during the initial chickenpox infection, and can be present during an occurrence of shingles.
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FAQs
What are IgM antibodies?
IgM antibodies are the first antibodies to appear in response to initial exposure to an antigen. A positive IgM result indicates it is likely that you have become infected with the varicella-zoster virus within recent weeks.
What is chickenpox, and how do I prevent it?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It can cause an itchy, blister-like rash. Chickenpox can be serious especially in babies, adolescents, adults, pregnant women, and people with a weakened immune system. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.