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Chickenpox Surveillance in France. Chickenpox, a highly contagious viral disease, is caused by a herpes virus (Varicella-Zoster Virus). Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets (inhalation of saliva droplets emitted by an infected person) or through direct contact with skin lesions. The incubation period lasts 2 to 3 weeks. Contagiousness begins 2 to 4 days before the onset of the disease and continues until the scab stage (5 to 7 days after the rash appears). Although often mild, severe forms increase with age but can also occur in newborns and immunocompromised individuals. There is also a risk of fetal pathology and neonatal chickenpox in infected pregnant women. In France, widespread vaccination of children over 12 months of age is not recommended. Current vaccination recommendations apply to individuals with no history of chickenpox (or with an uncertain history) in the following circumstances: adolescents aged 12–18 years, women of childbearing age, post-exposure vaccination, healthcare professionals and professionals working with young children, individuals in close contact with immunocompromised individuals, and children who are candidates for solid organ transplantation.