To prevent chickenpox from spreading at home, it is important to follow these guidelines:
- Keep the infected person isolated: The infected person should stay at home and avoid contact with others, especially pregnant women, infants, and people with weakened immune systems, until all the blisters have crusted over, usually around 5 to 7 days after the onset of the rash.
- Practice good hygiene: The infected person should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and wash their hands frequently with soap and water.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that the infected person has touched, such as bed linens, clothing, and toys.
- Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, combs, and brushes to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Cover the blisters: If possible, the infected person should keep the blisters covered with a bandage or clothing to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
- Avoid scratching: Scratching the blisters can cause them to become infected, so it is important to encourage the infected person not to scratch.
- Consider getting vaccinated: If you haven’t had chickenpox and haven’t been vaccinated against it, it may be worth considering getting the vaccine to protect yourself from getting infected.
Note however, and don’t get vaccinated if you:
- Are allergic to the vaccine or to any part of the vaccine.
- Are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
- Have problems with your immune system.
- Have tuberculosis.
- Aren’t feeling well. (Get the vaccine when you feel better.)
- Recently had a blood transfusion or any other live vaccines.
Talk with your healthcare provider about whether or not you should be vaccinated. Also note that these measures will help prevent the spread of chickenpox to others, but they will not shorten the duration of the disease or relieve symptoms.