Chicken Pox

Does anyone know how long Chicken Pox is infectious for please. Also, if someone else in the family has had it in the past could they 'carry' it or shingles to someone else outside of the household.

 

I believe it is highly contagious for about 5 days after symptoms first show. I don't know about the shingles bit though, other than that they are the same germ.

 

Thanks Clueless, it's the shingles I'm worried about. My grand-daughter has developed chicken pox today, so I'll be staying clear for a while. The medication I'm on makes me highly susceptible to it.

 

Blimey Armandii! Talk about get it over and done with in one go! I bet you were right poorly.

 

Patient UK.
A person with chickenpox is infectious from two days before the rash first appears until all the spots have crusted over (commonly about five days after onset of the rash). A child with chickenpox should stay off school or nursery for five days from the onset of the rash. Also, whilst infectious, they should keep away from at-risk people who may get a severe illness if they get chickenpox. These include:

• Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox in the past. Chickenpox can be severe and cause complications during pregnancy.
• People with a poorly functioning immune system. For example, people with leukaemia, with HIV/AIDS, on steroid medication, or who are taking chemotherapy.
• The at-risk children listed earlier.

Healthy adults who have not had chickenpox may also want to avoid catching it, as the illness tends to be worse in adults.

 

All the pox have to have crusted over. I had it two years ago. Nasty - stay away till she's better. Shingles- keep the area covered don't let anyone touch the rash.

 

Thanks everyone, I'll be avoiding my family this week.