How long to isolate with chickenpox

Chickenpox is contagious before the rash is fully recognisable and remains contagious while fresh, fluid-filled blisters are appearing. Counting calendar days is less reliable than checking the skin: different spots can be at different stages. A person is generally ready to return when the lesions have all crusted, there are no new lesions, and they feel well enough for normal activity. Follow local school, childcare, workplace, or travel guidance if it is stricter. People with reduced immunity may need individual advice.

Stay in a separate, well-ventilated room where possible and avoid visitors who are pregnant, newborn, or immunocompromised. Do not share towels, clothing, bedding, or personal items. Wash hands often and cover coughs and sneezes. Arrange remote medical advice before visiting a clinic, and tell the clinician that chickenpox is suspected. A GP consultation can help confirm when normal contact is appropriate and whether treatment is needed.

Seek prompt advice if fever is worsening or returns, the skin becomes increasingly red or painful, or the person is drinking poorly. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, confusion, repeated vomiting, dehydration, or a severe headache with neck stiffness. Contact a clinician early after exposure if the person is pregnant, immunocompromised, or has close contact with someone in either group.

Ask what counts as a fully crusted blister, when school or work can restart, how to protect household members, and whether antiviral treatment or vaccination advice applies to close contacts.