Shingles - Questions & Answers
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From: Theresa Ferguson

Q :  My 17 year old daughter was just diagnosed with shingles. There was no pain involved just a healthy rash over on side of body. Like a sash. She's on steroids and valtrex. How long will she be communicable? she works in a restaurant and I don't want her working until she's safe. It's a haven for old folks around here.

Answer : Hello Theresa. Shingles is not infectious in the same way as chickenpox, where the virus can be passed on in coughs and sneezes. However, shingles is contagious. This means it can be passed on by direct contact. Fluid from shingles blisters can cause chickenpox in people who are not already immune. People with shingles should avoid those with a lowered immunity like the elderly. It is infectious from the onset of the rash until all the scabs have crusted. 

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