Shingles and Chicken Pox

[Georgina128]

Hello

I've just been told that my MIL has been diagnosed with Shingles. I'm back in the UK at the moment catching up with family before the baby arrives and we were planning to spend the weekend up in Yorkshire with the in-laws. Does anyone know if it is safe to be exposed to the shingles and chicken pox virus when you are pregnant? I'm not sure whether or not I am immune - I had a mild case of chicken pox as a child but it was only very mild.

Any help would be gratefully received!

Thanks
Georgina

[krisp]

Hi Georgina, even a very mild case of chicken pox generally gives you immunity to the varicella virus (this is the virus that causes chicken pox and shingles). Is it possible to go to see a Dr and ask for a varicella antibody test before you visit? It will tell you if you have the antibody which provides immunity.

[katnap]

i would get tested for immunity, i had my tests done at 8 weeks, and i had a severe case of chicken pox when i was about 14 and i have almost no immunity. So its best to get checked out, its a simple blood test.

[Ambah]

I also would get tested for your immunity.... I had a mild case of chicken pox as a child - and it didn't do much for my immunity, as I was able to catch it again 2 years later.

I'm not sure if its more of a risk to bubs if you are in early pg as opposed to late? I would definitely check it and ask these questions to a Dr if you are able.

Goodluck!

[Georgina128]

yeah I think I need to head down to the local drs and get checked out - I can't take the risk of catching chicken pox - thanks for all the comments.

[danda]

Me too...i had a mild case as a child and have just been tested...no immunity. Get it checked out for sure!!