My partner is undergoing chemo. I work with children and have been in contact with one confirmed case of chicken pox and four with spots not scabbed over but diagnosed as viral infection. Should I shield and mask up.
I'm sorry to hear that your partner is undergoing treatment at the moment. It's understandable that you want to make sure you are taking any necessary precautions.
Our nurse team are not back in the office now until Monday morning. For advice over the weekend, you can always ring the chemo hotline number that your partner was given or call NHS 111, who should be able to help.
I'm sorry to read that your partner is having chemotherapy. This must not be an easy time for you both.
If you’ve had chickenpox before (or have been vaccinated against it), your risk of catching it yourself is much lower. Being exposed to a child with chickenpox does not mean you will definitely get it.
It’s a good idea for your partner to let their chemotherapy team or specialist nurse know about this exposure, especially if you develop symptoms. People on chemotherapy who are exposed to chickenpox may sometimes need antiviral medication, but this is not always necessary.
You do not need to shield yourself, but it’s best take some sensible precautions such as, washing your hands regularly, where possible, try and avoid close face-to-face contact with anyone who develops a chickenpox-like rash, and check out for any new symptoms such as a fever, feeling unwell or a new rash.
I hope this helps. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
