How to Stop Others From Getting Chicken Pox

Unless your immunity has been built up because you've already had the virus or have been vaccinated, exposure to the Varicella Virus can produce chicken pox. Chicken pox is spread through direct contact, through airborne exposure (through sneezing or coughing) and by indirect contact (with infected clothing, sheets or wash items).

Instructions

• 1

  Prevent others from getting the virus by limiting unnecessary exposure. Keep children home as soon as they show symptoms of rash or low grade fever and fatigue. If they have already been exposed to the virus, be aware that symptoms generally show up between 10 to 21 days from the point of exposure.

• 2

  Find out when your child contracted the virus. Transmittal of the virus can occur a few days before the rash appears, which makes it difficult to prevent the spread of the virus. If you already have family members with the virus, you can estimate when the rest of the family may come down with symptoms.

• 3

  Vaccinate all of your children against the virus. The chicken pox vaccination is part of most childhood inoculations doctors give today. Ask your family physician if your children are protected. Any child who has had chicken pox is generally immune to the virus.

• 4

  Protect all newborns, pregnant women and anyone who is immune-compromised, as the chicken pox virus can be severe and even deadly for these individuals. Keep contagious laundry and individuals separated from others. Use disinfectants to keep all community areas clean.

• 5

  Visit your physician if a compromised individual has come in contact with the virus. She can prescribe Acyclovir as a treatment for chicken pox. Check with your doctor to see if the prescription is available.