How does varicella-zoster spread?

A person with chickenpox can pass the virus to someone who is not immune through shared air during close contact and through contact with fluid from blisters. Transmission is easier indoors and around people with a widespread, active rash. Shingles does not spread shingles to another person, but fluid from its blisters can transmit varicella to someone who has not had immunity; that person would develop chickenpox rather than shingles. Covering lesions and avoiding direct contact reduces exposure.

Stay away from people who are pregnant, newborn, or immunocompromised while contagious, and ask a GP Consultation service how long this should continue. Keep blisters covered when practical, wash hands regularly, and do not share towels, bedding, clothing or personal items. Clean frequently touched surfaces. If exposure has occurred, contact a clinician promptly to discuss Chickenpox Vaccination or other next steps based on the exposed person’s history.

Seek prompt clinical advice after exposure if the contact is pregnant, very young, or has a weakened immune system. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe weakness, dehydration, or a rapidly worsening rash. Fever with new blisters should be assessed when the diagnosis is uncertain; Fever and Skin Blisters can help you describe the symptoms.

Ask when the person may return to work, school or childcare, whether household contacts need advice, and how to protect someone vulnerable at home. Ask whether vaccination is appropriate after exposure and what symptoms should trigger reassessment.