Can a person with herpes zoster (shingles) spread chicken pox to a person who had never chicken pox?

Question

Yes it is quite possible. Although�shingles�and�chickenpox�are caused by the same virus, they are not the same illness.�chickenpox�is usually a milder illness that affects children.�shingles�results from a reactivation of the virus long after the�chickenpox�illness has disappeared. The�chickenpox�virus stays in the body even after recovery. So it is quite possible to spread chicken pox to a person who has never had it, as he has no immunity for the virus. Please note: further check up, history and examination may be required, seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening of symptoms. Feel free to contact me for more information :)

Vivek Trivedi · Accepted Answer

Yes it is quite possible. Although�shingles�and�chickenpox�are caused by the same virus, they are not the same illness.�chickenpox�is usually a milder illness that affects children.�shingles�results from a reactivation of the virus long after the�chickenpox�illness has disappeared. The�chickenpox�virus stays in the body even after recovery. So it is quite possible to spread chicken pox to a person who has never had it, as he has no immunity for the virus. Please note: further check up, history and examination may be required, seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening of symptoms. Feel free to contact me for more information :)