Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Have Chicken Pox. How Is It Communicated?
My daughter has been exposed to children with chicken pox for the last 3 weeks, but she hasn t had it (yet). Could she carry the virus and pass it on without actually getting chickenpox? I had it as a child - could I carry it from being around those same children and could I spread it? We are due to visit a new mum and her newborn soon so wanted to check. Thanks.
Mon, 11 Feb 2013
Hi,
Thank you for your query,
The incubation period of chickenpox virus is 10 to 21 days and usually child may develop chickenpox within this period after the exposure if she is susceptible.
She will pass the virus to others without actually getting chickenpox skin lesions.
As you had chickenpox you are immune to chickenpox but there are chances of carrying it and spreading it.
As newborns are susceptible to get varicella easily I advise you to postpone the visit, and if the visit is compulsory and unavoidable , put masks to the mouth and nose and visit from far.
Postexposre prophylaxis vaccine for chickenpox can be given to your child if she is not vaccinated according to her appropriateness for her age, so consult your Pediatrician for advise.
Hope I have answered your query.
Thank you for your query,
The incubation period of chickenpox virus is 10 to 21 days and usually child may develop chickenpox within this period after the exposure if she is susceptible.
She will pass the virus to others without actually getting chickenpox skin lesions.
As you had chickenpox you are immune to chickenpox but there are chances of carrying it and spreading it.
As newborns are susceptible to get varicella easily I advise you to postpone the visit, and if the visit is compulsory and unavoidable , put masks to the mouth and nose and visit from far.
Postexposre prophylaxis vaccine for chickenpox can be given to your child if she is not vaccinated according to her appropriateness for her age, so consult your Pediatrician for advise.
Hope I have answered your query.
I find this answer helpful
4 Doctors agree with this answer
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Varicella
Loading Online Doctors....