Is chickenpox contagious to others?

In general, chickenpox is contagious and highly infectious.

When a patient with chickenpox coughs or sneezes, the virus spreads into the air through respiratory droplets. Healthy individuals who inhale these virus-containing droplets may become infected. Chickenpox is closely related to colds and respiratory tract infections. The respiratory droplets from patients are highly infectious, and individuals who have never had chickenpox are particularly susceptible to infection when their immunity decreases. The rash associated with chickenpox contains the virus, and when the blisters rupture, the fluid can contaminate clothing and objects. If a healthy person has broken skin and comes into contact with the blister fluid from a patient, the virus can enter the body and cause infection. Additionally, close contact with a chickenpox patient, such as hugging or shaking hands, may also lead to transmission, as the virus can spread through skin contact or saliva.

Personal items previously used by a patient, such as towels, clothing, and toys, can transmit the virus to others if not thoroughly disinfected. Transmission can occur when healthy individuals come into contact with ruptured lesions from a patient or contaminated clothing and objects. Although chickenpox is not a typical maternal-fetal infectious disease, in some cases, if a pregnant woman develops chickenpox before delivery, the virus may be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta or birth canal, potentially causing fetal malformations or premature birth.

During medical procedures, failure to strictly follow disinfection and isolation protocols may lead to iatrogenic transmission of the chickenpox virus. Improper protection by healthcare workers and the use of contaminated needles, stethoscopes, or other equipment can easily lead to virus transmission. It is recommended to follow guidance from local health authorities regarding vaccination to establish herd immunity and effectively control the spread of chickenpox. Additionally, once a case of chickenpox is identified, immediate isolation measures should be implemented, and thorough cleaning and disinfection of the patient's clothing, bedding, and other personal items should be conducted to minimize further viral spread.