Customer question:
How long should we stay at home when we get chickenpox? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
When we get chickenpox, it is recommended that we stay at home until we are no longer contagious. This usually takes 5 to 7 days after the rash starts, when all the rash has dried and scabbed over. While we are contagious, it is important to isolate ourselves to prevent spreading the virus to other people, especially those who may not have had or been vaccinated against chickenpox.
In addition, it is recommended that people who are more susceptible to severe complications of chicken pox, such as infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, avoid contact with people who are more susceptible to severe complications. This may include limiting patient visits to hospitals or other healthcare facilities where many people have weakened immune systems.
In addition, it is important to observe good hygiene practices during the contagious period, such as regular hand washing with soap and water, to prevent the spread of the virus. Also, avoid scratching the rash, leading to infection or scarring. It is best to stay at home and avoid contact with others until we are no longer contagious.
Should the parents of children who have chickenpox also stay at home?
The parents of a child with chickenpox may not even stay at home, especially if they have already had chickenpox or have been vaccinated against it. If the parents are immune to chickenpox, they are usually not at risk of contracting the varicella-zoster virus, even if they are in contact with a child with chickenpox.
In any case, it is recommended that parents consult their doctor to check their immune status and also to check that they are protected against the chicken pox virus. If they are not sure of their immune status or if they have not yet recovered from chicken pox, it is recommended that they avoid contact with the child until the child is no longer contagious.
In addition, if parents of sick children work in settings with a higher risk of severe complications from chicken pox, such as hospitals or nursing homes, the employer may require such persons to stay home to prevent the spread of the virus to at-risk individuals.
In any case, parents must follow the instructions of doctors and local health authorities and follow the guidelines for preventing the spread of the chickenpox virus to other people.
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