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What is the cause of chickenpox?

Answered by Dr Claire Winstanley
14th March 2016

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Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes shingles). Chickenpox is very contagious and the virus spreads most easily from individuals who have the rash. It can be transferred from contaminated surfaces or the tiny droplets that come out of the nose and mouth of those who are carrying the infection when they cough or sneeze.

Children who have had chickenpox before should not catch it again and have immunity against the disease for the rest of their lives.

Meet our experts

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Dawn Kelly

Dawn is a qualified paediatric nurse, health visitor and lecturer with over 20 years’ experience. She’s written widely about child health and development and has a wealth of knowledge about childhood illnesses and advising parents on issues such as weaning and sleep. Her three daughters also put her knowledge to the test!
Dr Ellie Cannon

As well as being a celebrity doctor, Dr Ellie is a GP in a family-health practice and a mum to two young children. She has recently written a popular book on parenting, writes a weekly health column in a national newspaper and regularly appears on television to advise on health topics.
Dr Claire Winstanley

Dr Claire Winstanley has been a qualified GP for nearly twenty years, graduating in medicine from Newcastle in 1993 and has worked as a GP in surgeries in Buckinghamshire and London. Dr Claire Winstanley has a particular interest in children’s health, having recently authored a book which is a practical guide for new parents. She currently lives in Bristol and has three children.