Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. You catch it by coming into contact with someone who is infected. Chickenpox is a very contagious infection. Around 90% of people who have not previously had chickenpox will become infected when they come into contact with the virus.

Is it safe to be around someone with chickenpox?

A person with chickenpox is considered contagious beginning 1 to 2 days before rash onset until all the chickenpox lesions have crusted (scabbed). Vaccinated people who get chickenpox may develop lesions that do not crust. These people are considered contagious until no new lesions have appeared for 24 hours.

Is chickenpox easy to catch?

How is it spread? Chickenpox spreads easily. It is most contagious on the day before the rash appears. It spreads from person to person through direct contact with the virus.