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!

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!

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!

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!

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

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

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.