Chicken Pox - what to look out for

[sepa]

Hello, I know someone has done a thread recently about chicken pox, which is where I learnt they are contagious until scabbed over.
Yesterday I was sat in an office at work for about 8 hours with someone who has chicken pox. They are in very early stages (spots not really come out). I have had chicken pox when I was younger, but so long ago I don't remember it. My question is is what signs should I look out for (my immune system is already compromised with a cold) and secondly how concerned should I be?

My manager (the one with chicken pox) didn't even tell me himself I have heard it through my other manager as I am 28 weeks pg!

I wouldn't worry since you've had it before - the chances of getting it again are small. Also, I don't think it's a risk to the baby unless you caught it very early or late in pregnancy; at 28 weeks you've plenty of time to recover. It starts with a temperature and spots that blister, usually on torso so they are the signs to watch for.

Thanks. I'm sure it will be ok just want to make sure I catch it early I suppose if I do get it. With Christmas coming up dr appointments will be hard to get!

I agree. You've had it before so the risk is low. I was exposed to it in my fourth pregnancy but having had it as a child, the midwife wasn't concerned.

Unless there are complications there's not a lot a GP can do anyway. If you did catch it you should let them know but don't go in without telling them - you shouldn't sit in a waiting room if you are infectious.

I have a toddler DS who is yet to have chicken pox. I didn't have it as a child as far as I remember - the midwife told me to make an appt to have a blood test if he does get it while I'm pg and if the test came back showing low immunity then I need a course of tablets. Not sure how that applies if you've already had it. Give your midwife a quick call if you're worried

I would call the dr and have a phone conversation with them anyway.

Now I know what to look for i think it will be ok. I was only slightly concerned as I have a cold already at the moment so I know that my immune system is slightly weaker at the moment!

Thank you for all your replies

I have no recollection of ever having chicken pox and my mum swears I didn't have it but in first pregnancy was exposed to the virus. Had blood tests which showed I had immunity. So if you know you had it then I'd say you can be fairly secure that you've got the antibodies.