How is chicken pox spread?
The infection is usually transmitted through inhalation of infectious respiratory secretions from an infected person (droplet infection), direct physical contact with vesicular lesion and by vertical (mother to baby) transmission during pregnancy. It is contagious two days before the onset of the rash and may be spread until all blisters have formed scabs. After you are exposed to the disease, it may take from ten days to three weeks before you notice a rash. Transmission via inanimate objects is unlikely. To avoid spreading the illness, stay in your room or apartment until all your lesions have dried up (approximately five to seven days). Do not use public transportation, attend classes or social events. You may have visitors who have had chicken pox in the past. Avoid friends who have not had the disease. Do not share eating utensils, food, smoking materials or allow others to drink after you.
