Preventing Chickenpox / Shingles
Chickenpox/Shingles Fact Sheet
(PDF 15 KB)
The varicella-zoster virus is spread through
direct contact with a person that is infected and through the air
with fluid from the rash or respiratory secretions. An
infected person can spread the virus from 5 days before the rash
develops until all lesions have crusted.
Currently, the best way to prevent
illness is by vaccine, which is 85% effective.
People with chickenpox should remain at home until no new
lesions are forming and all present lesions have crusted.
This is generally a period of
four to five days for persons with a healthy immune system.
Infected persons with compromised immune systems may continue to form new
lesions and remain infectious for a longer period of time.
People with shingles should cover their rash
before leaving the house. Care should be taken to wash hands after touching chickenpox or shingles rashes.
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