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An infection caused by the reactivation of varicella-zoster (chickenpox) virus within the body of someone who previously had chickenpox or, less commonly, someone who received the chickenpox vaccine in the past
Appearance of red bumps and blisters (vesicles), usually in a narrow area on one side of the body. The rash may be itchy or painful.
Incubation period: The virus remains in the body in an inactive state for many years after the original chickenpox infection. Shingles may occur when the virus (varicella zoster) reactivates many years after having chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine.
Contagious period: Until the vesicles are covered by scabs.
The virus in the shingles rash can spread by direct contact to a person who has never been vaccinated or had chicken- pox. In this circumstance, the virus will cause chickenpox (not shingles) in that person.
Use good hand-hygiene technique at all the times listed in Chapter 2.
Cover skin rash.
Report the infection to the staff member designated by the child care program or school for decision-making and action related to care of ill children. That person, in turn, alerts possibly exposed family and staff members to watch for symptoms.
Inform others of the greater risk to
Susceptible adults and children (ie, those who neither had chickenpox nor were adequately vaccinated)
Children or adults with impaired immune systems
No, unless
The rash cannot be covered.
The child is unable to participate and staff members determine they cannot care for the child without compromising their ability to care for the health and safety of the other children in the group.
The child meets other exclusion criteria (see Conditions Requiring Temporary Exclusion in Chapter 4).
Yes, when all the following criteria have been met:
When rash can be covered or when all lesions have crusted
When the child is able to participate and staff members determine they can care for the child without compromising their ability to care for the health and safety of the other children in the group
The virus that causes shingles is the virus that causes chickenpox. Vaccination of susceptible individuals is the best way to prevent or decrease the severity of infection with this virus. A vaccine is currently available to boost immunity to the virus and prevent shingles in individuals who previously had chickenpox. It is recommended for use only in those 50 years and older.
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The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.