Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Mopidevi Raghuvarma

Can You Get Chicken Pox a Second Time?

Most of us believe chickenpox strikes only once in a lifetime. But is that true for everyone? If you've already had chickenpox, you may wonder: will you get chickenpox a second time? While it's rare, it is possible, especially under certain conditions. Let's explore how and why chicken pox can happen a second time, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself.

What Is Chickenpox and Why Does It Usually Happen Only Once?

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It usually affects children and leads to symptoms like:

Most people who recover from chickenpox develop immunity and won't get it again. But in some cases, immunity isn't lifelong.

Can Chicken Pox Occur a Second Time?

Yes, although uncommon, chickenpox can recur a second time. Your immune system typically "remembers" the virus after the first infection. But specific triggers can lead to chickenpox in adults a second time, and it's usually more severe than the first episode.

What Can Cause Chickenpox to Come Back?

Several reasons may explain a chickenpox recurrence, including:

1. Weakened Immune System

People with compromised immunity (e.g., HIV/AIDS, cancer, chemotherapy) are more vulnerable.

2. Misdiagnosis the First Time

Sometimes, other skin conditions like hand-foot-mouth disease or insect bites are mistaken for chickenpox, meaning your first bout might not have been real chickenpox.

3. Mild First Infection

If your first case was extremely mild, your body may not have built strong enough immunity.

What Are the Symptoms of Chickenpox in Adults Second Time?

Experiencing chickenpox in adults a second time can be more intense and riskier. Common symptoms include:

Knowing the symptoms of chickenpox in adults can help you act quickly and seek medical attention.

How Is Chickenpox Treated If It Occurs Again?

If you suspect chicken pox a second time, don't ignore it. Early treatment can help reduce the severity:

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

Is There a Way to Prevent Chickenpox and Its Recurrence?

Yes, vaccination plays a key role:

Chickenpox Vaccine

The CDC recommends two doses for children, teens, and adults who've never had chickenpox or weren't vaccinated. It significantly lowers the chance of infection and recurrence.

Breakthrough Infections

Though rare, vaccinated individuals can still get chickenpox. These are referred to as breakthrough infections, but they are typically milder and shorter in duration.

Herd Immunity

Vaccination not only protects individuals but also shields the community by reducing the overall spread of the virus.

What Is the Link Between Chickenpox and Shingles?

After you recover, the varicella-zoster virus can lie dormant in your nerve tissues. Years later, it may reactivate as shingles, a painful rash on one side of the body.

Risk factors for shingles:

To prevent shingles, adults aged 50 and above should consider the Shingrix vaccine, even if they've had shingles or chickenpox in the past.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Chickenpox Again?

If you're experiencing signs that resemble chickenpox in adults, second-time symptoms, don't delay medical advice. Whether it's a second bout or something more serious, such as shingles, early diagnosis and treatment are key.

Conclusion

For most people, chickenpox is a one-time event. However, if you're asking, "will you get chickenpox a second time?" the answer is yes, it can happen under the right (or wrong) conditions.

Vaccination remains the most powerful tool in preventing both initial infection and recurrence. If you're unsure of your chickenpox history or haven't been vaccinated, speak to your doctor today.

Frequently Asked Questions