Brief Answer: Chicken pox occurs once in life time Detailed Answer: Hi XXXXXXX Welcome and thanks for posting your query to the forum. Regarding your query about Chicken pox- it is an viral infection which is caused by herpes virus. This is one of the infection which occurs only once in life time. Once occurred there is formation of antibodies against it which are permanent and remains through out in body. That is why it occurs only once in life time and never recurs back. The virus may remain in body but can not cause chicken pox because of permanent antibodies present in us. In later life it can present as herpes zoster or shingles which is totally different from chicken pox in its appearance and presentation. I hope it clears your doubt. If you have any further queries I will be glad to help. With regards, Dr Sanjay MD -Dermatology

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