How Long Does Chickenpox Remain Contagious?

Chickenpox primarily affects children, but it can also occur in adults who haven't been vaccinated or haven't had it before. The virus spreads easily from person to person through the air via coughs and sneezes or by direct contact with the fluid from the blisters.

We all know that chickenpox is contagious. But how long does it remain contagious? How long do you need to protect yourself from getting it from someone? Read on to address these questions.

What are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?

Chickenpox typically presents with an itchy, spotty rash as its main symptom. Here's a breakdown of what to expect during the three stages of chickenpox-

Stage 1: Small Spots Appear

●     The spots can appear anywhere on the body, including inside the mouth and around the genitals.

●     They may spread or remain confined to a small area.

●     The colour of the spots varies depending on the person's skin tone.

Stage 2: The Spots Become Blisters

●     The spots fill with fluid and develop into blisters, which are intensely itchy and may burst.

Stage 3: The Blisters Become Scabs

●     The blisters eventually form scabs, with some being flaky while others may leak fluid.

Other symptoms may include a high temperature, aches, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Chickenpox can be particularly distressing for children due to the itching even if they don't have many spots. Adults tend to experience more severe symptoms like longer duration of high temperature and they have more spots than children.

How Long is Chickenpox Contagious?

Chickenpox is contagious from one to two days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, typically around five to six days after the onset of the rash.

During this contagious period, it's essential to avoid public areas to prevent spreading the virus to people who may not have had chickenpox or are at higher risk of complications.

Special caution should be taken to keep away from newborn babies and pregnant women. Keep a distance from people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or taking steroid medications.

Why Should You Get Chickenpox Vaccine?

Getting vaccinated against chickenpox is not just about personal protection, it's a vital step in safeguarding both yourself and those around you. Here's why the chickenpox vaccine is crucial-
1.    Prevents Illness- The vaccine reduces the risk of contracting chickenpox or experiencing severe symptoms if infected.

2.    Protects Vulnerable People- Vaccination helps protect those who are unable to receive the vaccine due to medical reasons or have weakened immune systems.

3.    Prevents Complications- Vaccination lowers the likelihood of complications associated with chickenpox, such as bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, or encephalitis.

4.    Community Immunity- By getting vaccinated, you contribute to herd immunity, reducing the overall spread of the virus within the community.
If you think you can benefit from our chickenpox vaccination service, then visit us by booking an appointment.

Get Chickenpox Vaccine at Pearl Chemist Group

Getting vaccinated against chickenpox is essential to stay protected in your home country as well as in a foreign land. So, if you are planning to travel somewhere, get chickenpox vaccination as part of our travel vaccinations.

If you have any concerns or need guidance on vaccination, visit us for our travel clinic services in London, Merton, Morden, Streatham, and Tolworth.