Is chickenpox still contagious when it scabs over?

During childhood, most people will get chickenpox. After getting chickenpox, they will be immune for life and will not get chickenpox again. During the period of chickenpox, it is contagious to a certain extent. Of course, when the chickenpox has scabbed, it is not contagious. When chickenpox just occurs, because it is contagious, isolation is required. Pay attention to diet and ensure nutritional supply. Do not eat spicy and irritating foods. In addition, do not pick with your hands. Let the scab fall off naturally to avoid scar formation. When chickenpox occurs, the period from the onset of disease to the seventh day is considered contagious, especially the second and third days which are the peak period of the disease. Once scabs form, it means that it is no longer contagious.

1. Are chickenpox scabs still contagious?

Generally, the contagious period of chickenpox is from the onset to the seventh day. Chickenpox has a cycle, which is usually seven days. The second and third days are the peak period. Be careful not to pick at the scar after it forms, as this will make it difficult to remove the acne mark.

Are chickenpox scabs contagious?

The contagious period of chickenpox is generally from infection with the varicella virus to the time when the varicella scabs form and fall off. Chickenpox can appear as papules, blisters, ulcers, and scabs at the same time, and is most contagious during the scab period. Once the scab falls off completely, it will not be contagious and the infection will not recur.

2. The three main ways of chickenpox transmission

2.1. Infection through the respiratory tract

The main route of transmission of varicella virus is through the respiratory tract. The virus is present in the herpes fluid, blood and oral secretions of chickenpox patients, so children who are susceptible to infection may be infected after coming into contact with patients or inhaling droplets sprayed by patients when they cough or talk.

2.2. Contact infection

Susceptible children become infected after coming into contact with eating utensils, toys, bedding and towels contaminated with the varicella virus. In pediatric collective units, if children with varicella are not discovered and isolated in time, it may lead to an epidemic of varicella among susceptible children, with an incidence rate of % to 90%.

2.3. Herpes zoster is transmitted by contact

There have also been reports of susceptible children developing varicella after contact with adults with herpes zoster.

Chickenpox patients should avoid irritating foods in their diet. Chickenpox and measles are both rash-induced febrile diseases. Chickenpox is suitable for heat-clearing foods, but not for irritating foods. Irritating foods will make chickenpox more numerous and larger and prolong the course of the disease. Irritating foods that should be avoided include coriander, rice wine, crucian carp, ginger, green onions and mutton.