Many people wonder if having had chickenpox provides protection against monkeypox, given some shared characteristics. This article clarifies whether prior chickenpox offers any immunity, outlines key distinctions between the two diseases, and provides practical steps for reducing monkeypox risk.
Key Differences Between Monkeypox and Chickenpox
Monkeypox and chickenpox, despite both causing skin rashes, are caused by entirely different viruses. Monkeypox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, an Orthopoxvirus related to smallpox. Chickenpox, however, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the herpesvirus family.
These distinct viral origins lead to differences in how the diseases typically manifest. Monkeypox often presents with swollen lymph nodes, a symptom not commonly associated with chickenpox. The monkeypox rash also tends to have lesions that develop at the same time and are often deeper, progressing from flat spots to fluid-filled blisters that then scab over. Chickenpox rashes, however, can appear in waves, with lesions in various stages of development simultaneously, and are typically very itchy rather than painful.
While both can spread through close contact, chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads very easily through airborne respiratory droplets and direct contact with blisters. Monkeypox transmission primarily occurs through close contact with an infected person’s lesions, body fluids, or contaminated materials like bedding. It is considered less contagious than chickenpox.
Immunity and Cross-Protection
Having had chickenpox does not provide immunity against monkeypox. The human immune system develops highly specific responses to pathogens. Antibodies and immune cells generated to fight the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) from chickenpox do not recognize or neutralize the monkeypox virus. The two viruses are too genetically dissimilar, belonging to entirely different viral families, for cross-protection.
Immunity is tailored to the specific virus that triggered the immune response. For instance, recovery from chickenpox protects specifically against VZV, not unrelated viruses. This explains why prior chickenpox infection or vaccination does not protect against monkeypox.
In contrast, smallpox vaccines, developed for another orthopoxvirus, offer protection against monkeypox. These viruses are closely related within the same family. Historical data suggests smallpox vaccines can be up to 85% effective in preventing monkeypox.
Preventive Measures and Risk Reduction
Since chickenpox does not protect against monkeypox, preventive measures are important. Avoid close contact with infected individuals, including intimate physical contact and direct contact with their rash, scabs, or body fluids.
Practice good hand hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Also, avoid contact with materials like bedding, towels, or clothing used by an infected person.
Monkeypox vaccines are available and recommended for individuals at higher risk. Consult a healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is appropriate for you. Stay informed about public health guidance from local authorities.