Can you get chickenpox twice? 13 big animal pox researches this week

Firstly, yes. THE CDC Says it – although it’s not common – and my younger brother did, around 1992. I felt for him then, and I feel for my mother now. Getting chickenpox twice is no joke, from the worry to the absolute chaos it can bring to family life.

Chickenpox may seem like a relic of childhood, but it comes up in conversations among parents and anyone facing a specific situation (travel plans, families with newborns, etc.). From whether you can catch it twice to handling it in infants, Reddit blew up this week and it got me thinking.

Here’s a deep dive into the big questions about chickenpox that we might not think to ask, until we’re in the thick of it. Plus, practical tips and the latest information.

Can you get chickenpox twice?

This is probably the most common question: If you had chickenpox as a child, can it come back? In most cases, no. Once you’ve had it, your body usually develops lifelong immunity. However, there are rare cases where people with weakened immune systems may experience a second, milder case.

Can I get chickenpox adult?

Yes. While most people contract chickenpox as children, adults who have never had it (or have not been vaccinated) can contract it. Adult cases tend to be more severe, with higher risks of complications like pneumonia. This is why the chickenpox vaccine in the UK is recommended for adults who have never had the virus before.

Can my children now have a vaccine on the NHS?

Yes! For the first time, children in the UK can now get protection against chickenpox on the NHS, thanks to the chickenpox vaccine.

Starting this month, the vaccine will be included in the routine childhood immunization schedule, with a catch-up schedule also available for older children.

Can you get shingles if you’ve never had chickenpox?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus behind chickenpox. If you have never had chickenpox and have not been vaccinated, you will not get shingles, but if you do get chickenpox, the virus may remain dormant and reactivate as shingles later in life.

A infant catch chickenpox?

Yes, but newborns usually have some protection if the mother has had chickenpox herself or has been vaccinated. If your baby is exposed, you should contact your GP immediately. Symptoms in infants include fever, fatigue, and the classic red, itchy rash.

Can I go to work if my child has chickenpox?

If your child has chickenpox, you will probably need to take time to care for them and avoid spreading it to your co-workers. Chickenpox is very contagious about two days before the rash appears and until all the blisters are crusted over.

Can I go to work with chickenpox myself?

Absolutely not. Adults with chickenpox should stay home to rest and avoid infecting others. Chickenpox is contagious and the risk of complications is higher in adults than in children.

Can you go to work with shingles?

Shingles is not as contagious as chickenpox, but the virus can spread to those who have never had chickenpox or received the vaccine. Cover the rash, practice good hygiene, and talk to your doctor about returning to work.

Chickenpox is contagious and the risk of complications is higher in adults than in children.

Can pets catch chickenpox?

No, chickenpox is a virus specific to humans. Your dog won’t catch it (this is a huge question online right now!), but it can spread quickly between humans.

Can you fly with chickenpox?

Traveling while contagious is strongly discouraged. Airlines generally prevent passengers with contagious diseases from boarding. Chickenpox is airborne and can spread to anyone who is not immune.

Why is it called “chickenpox”?

The origin is unclear. Some believe this comes from the rash’s resemblance to chickpeas or that it was considered a “mild” disease compared to smallpox. Either way, it’s one of those historical naming mysteries.

Do oatmeal baths work?

Oatmeal baths are a well-known home remedy for itchy chickenpox, and for many parents, they really help.

Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats that dissolve in water) has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritated, itchy skin and help reduce the urge to scratch. When added to a lukewarm bath, oatmeal creates a milky solution that coats the skin and can provide temporary relief from discomfort – especially helpful at bedtime, when the itching is often worst.

What about Sudocrème?

Sudocrem may be helpful against chickenpox in some cases. Its zinc oxide base creates a protective barrier on the skin, which can soothe sore spots and help prevent secondary infections, especially if blisters have burst.

While it doesn’t treat the virus or completely stop itching, applying a small amount to individual spots can reduce irritation and promote healing. It is best used sparingly and as an adjunct to other soothing measures, rather than as an overall treatment.

Chickenpox may seem like a simple childhood illness, but because adults get it and infants are at risk, knowledge is essential. Stay informed, rest and consult the NHS or your GP if you have any concerns.

The best read of January: Jesy Nelson and SMA Type 1’s Twins: Everything You Asked This Week