Is snake-like waist infection contagious?

Jul 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The vesicular fluid contains the virus, and direct contact with this fluid may lead to infection in others, particularly among individuals who have never been infected with the virus or have not received the related vaccine, posing a certain risk of transmission. Individuals who have never been infected with the varicella-zoster virus may develop the disease after contact with the patient's vesicular fluid; however, people who have had chickenpox or have been vaccinated are generally not at risk.

Herpes zoster, commonly known as snake-like rash, is generally contagious, although its transmissibility is relatively limited. If any abnormalities occur, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Herpes zoster is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The blister fluid contains the virus, and direct contact with this fluid may lead to infection in others, especially among individuals who have never been infected with the virus or received related vaccinations, posing a certain risk of transmission.

Individuals who have never been infected with the varicella-zoster virus may develop the disease after contact with the blister fluid from a patient. However, those who have had chickenpox or been vaccinated usually have antibodies in their bodies, making transmission less likely. Ordinary daily contact typically does not cause infection.

Patients with herpes zoster should avoid direct contact with blister fluid by others. The infectivity significantly decreases once the blisters have crusted over. Individuals who have not been infected with the virus can receive vaccination to prevent infection.