Generic chicken pox question

[HappyNurse2005, RN]

Not a medical advice question

I suspect my 5 year old son, who has had the CP vax a few years ago, may have the chicken pox. (come to think of it, a kid at his school had shingles 3 weeks ago)I don't need advice on that, I've already called his doctor and am waiting for the nurse to call me back. (of course, its too late to get an appt today)

Here's my question. I've had the CP myself, 14 years ago. If he does in fact have them, I know I can't get them (but could get shingles-ugh) but would that in any way prevent me from going to work-would it be an infection risk for my patients?

I'll ask the nurse when she calls, im just looking thinking ahead, since I'm scheduled to work tomorrow.

thank you

[Jolie, BSN]

Check with employee health. My employer did not want me to work when my daughter had the chicken pox, even though I'd already had them as an infant. Turned out to be good advice, as I came down with them, too.

As an aside, your pediatrician may not want to see your child in the office unless there is a complication, since the risk of infecting other patients is so high.

Hope you all feel better soon!