Is chickenpox contagious?

In general, chickenpox is contagious. Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and it can spread through various routes and is highly contagious.

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. This mode of transmission is especially common in crowded places such as schools and daycare centers. If a healthy person has broken skin and comes into contact with the patient's blister fluid, the virus can enter the body and cause infection. Personal items such as towels, clothing, and toys previously used by patients may also transmit the virus to others if they are not thoroughly disinfected before being touched by others.

If a pregnant woman contracts chickenpox during pregnancy, the virus may be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta, potentially causing congenital varicella syndrome. Additionally, newborns may become infected around the time of birth through contact with the mother's chickenpox blister fluid. Healthcare workers who do not take proper precautions may spread the virus via contaminated instruments such as syringes or stethoscopes.

For children and adults who have never had chickenpox, vaccination against chickenpox is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection. The vaccine not only reduces the risk of contracting chickenpox but also lessens the severity of symptoms and reduces the likelihood of complications. In addition, maintaining good personal hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can also help reduce the risk of chickenpox transmission.