Can You Catch Monkeypox After Chickenpox?
Learn whether recovering from chickenpox provides protection against monkeypox. Understand the differences between the viruses, immunity, and risks of sequential infections.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 13th Jan, 2026
Introduction
If you’ve had chickenpox before, you might wonder whether you can still catch monkeypox. The short answer is yes—having had chickenpox does not protect you from monkeypox. While both diseases cause rashes and fever, they are caused by different viruses and do not provide cross-immunity.
In this article, we’ll explain the differences between monkeypox and chickenpox, how they spread, symptoms to watch for, and what you can do to stay safe.
Understanding Chickenpox and Monkeypox
Chickenpox (Varicella)
Cause: Caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
Common in: Mostly affects children, but adults can get it too.
Symptoms: Itchy rash, fever, fatigue, and blisters that scab over.
Immunity: Once you recover, your body usually develops lifelong immunity, though the virus can remain dormant and cause shingles later in life.
Monkeypox (Mpox)
Cause: Caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the same family as smallpox.
Spread: Close contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated objects.
Symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a painful rash that progresses to scabs.
Immunity: Recovery provides some immunity, but reinfection is possible.
Can You Get Monkeypox After Chickenpox?
Yes! Since chickenpox and monkeypox are caused by different viruses, having had chickenpox does not protect you from monkeypox. Your immune system’s response to one virus does not prevent infection from the other.
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How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox spreads through:
Close physical contact (skin-to-skin, hugging, kissing).
Respiratory droplets (prolonged face-to-face contact).
Contaminated objects (bedding, towels, clothing).
Animal bites or scratches (from infected animals).
Unlike chickenpox, which spreads very easily through the air, monkeypox requires closer contact.
Symptoms to Watch For
Monkeypox symptoms usually appear 5–21 days after exposure and include:
1. Fever, headache, muscle aches
2. Swollen lymph nodes (a key difference from chickenpox)
3. Rash (starts as red spots, turns into blisters, then scabs)
The rash often begins on the face and spreads to other body parts, including palms and soles.
How to Protect Yourself?
1. Avoid Close Contact: If someone has monkeypox, avoid skin-to-skin contact.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid sharing personal items.
3. Get Vaccinated: The smallpox vaccine offers some protection against monkeypox. Check with your doctor if you’re eligible.
4. Stay Informed: Follow health advisories from trusted sources like the WHO or CDC.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if:
You develop an unexplained rash with fever.
You’ve been in close contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox.
Your symptoms worsen or become painful.
Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and prevent spread. If you suspect monkeypox or need guidance, you can book a consultation with Apollo24|7 for expert advice and testing options.
Conclusion
While chickenpox and monkeypox may look similar, they are different infections. Having had chickenpox does not make you immune to monkeypox. Stay cautious, practice good hygiene, and seek medical advice if you notice symptoms.
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Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
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Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Vishal Kumar H
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, master class in critical care medicine, Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Non Invasive Cardiology, certificate course in Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke, Certificate course in Common Mental Disorder
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru
Dr Aakash Andgi
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Sanjukta Das
General Physician
9 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Mijanur Rahaman Mondal
General Practitioner
3 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
