Adult Chicken Pox

memphispanda, RN · Jan 12, 2004

Probably a dumb question...but it is different than in children?? It's the same virus...

OCCHCanada · Jan 12, 2004

that was my thought too, but a newly diagnosed patient is being told he's fit for work...

I would have assumed that he should remain off until the pox have crusted over.

karenG · Jan 12, 2004

yes- hes infectious until the last one is crusted over.........unless you have different chickenpox to us!!

Karen

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Jan 13, 2004

I would like to point out something.

A couple of years ago, my ex was dizzy, felt nauseated, and had a bad headche. I took him (and a bucket) to a local clinic to get checked out.

The doctor looks at him and says "Flu, you got flu". Did not ask a SINGLE question about ANY previous illnesses.

Two hours later we were sitting at the ER while he had anaphylaxis, and looking pretty blue.

He had chickenpox.

There were no lesions present when we got there, they had just started developing when he was admitted onto a floor. He ALMOST died.

His initial symptoms seemed like the flu, but wound up being worse. The physician said he sees this kind of chickenpox in adults frequently, that most have a really bad reaction to it.

suzanne4, RN · Jan 13, 2004

Until the pox have completely crusted over he is able to spread the virus. Ask his doctor if he would like this patient around his family members!!!!!