How to Avoid Getting Chicken Pox While Helping an Infected Person

It is often difficult to avoid exposure to chicken pox, because the infected person is contagious one to two days before the appearance of the rash. However, there are some things that can be done to minimize exposure and avoid contracting the virus.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Air Filters

1. Avoid touching any of the pox marks until they are crusted over. Until they crust over, they continue to shed the virus.
2. Avoid intimate contact such as kissing. The virus is also shed via the respiratory system.
3. Keep the infected person's eating utensils and drinking glass separate.
4. Turn your head if he or she coughs or sneezes.
5. Practice good hand washing. Wash your hands every time you handle any of the sick person's things.
6. Use an air purifier, which helps filter bacteria and viruses out of the air.
7. Wash bed linens and recently worn clothes in hot, soapy water.
8. Keep yourself healthy. Get sufficient sleep. Eat nutritious food. Take a high-potency multivitamin.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a blood titer if can't recall having chicken pox as a child. A titer will tell you if you are immune to the virus. If you are not immune, consider getting a vaccine. Chicken pox is usually much more virulent in an adult, with a greater chance of complications.
• Keep newborn babies away from people with chicken pox. Avoid anyone with chicken pox if you are pregnant and not immune, or if you are immuno-compromised.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.