Father-in-law has shingles

[Hasle157]

Hi, just discovered today that my father-in-law has shingles. Luckily, I've already had chickenpox so should be fine, however my baby is due in a couple of weeks!
Is it going to be ok for him to go near the baby?

Any advice would be great!

[MrsCK]

We had an outbreak at work, and apparently the only way it can be spread is through direct contact with the sores. I have had chickenpox (but very mildly) so was a little concerned, although I am fine!

[CoolCat2014]

I'm not a healthcare professional, but the NHS website says that you can catch chicken pox from someone with shingles, and that shingles is dangerous for newborns:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/chickenpox/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Personally I'd keep baby away until he's over the infectious stage, I know it would be hard, but better safe than sorry!

[Kundry]

You and baby should keep away until all his blisters have crusted over. It is not safe for him to see the baby before that - however much he or MIL try to bargain with you!

[CoolCat2014]

Sorry my post should Say chicken pox is dangerous for newborns!

[Flywheel]

My dd caught cp from her cousin who had shingles. It's less likely, but definitely possible. He needs to stay away

[westcountrywoman]

It's less contagious than chicken pox but yes, a baby can catch chicken pox from someone with shingles. They need to be in direct contact with the fluid in the rash though, it's not airborne like CP.

I wouldn't take the risk with a newborn personally. They have very immature immune systems and it could be something simple like FIL scratching the rash then holding baby that could pass on the virus.