How Long Is Shingles Contagious?

Posted on Fri, 28 Feb 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 Answered on

Sat, 22 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have Shingles and was wondering how long I need to stay away from babies or pregnant women?

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (4 minutes later)

Atleast for 4 - 6 weeks after you are alright.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Aarti Abraham (0 minute later)

Really, that long! So I have to stay at home so as not to come into contact with them?

Answered by Dr. Aarti Abraham (2 days later)

Brief Answer: AS BELOW Detailed Answer: Shingles usually starts as a painful rash on one side of the face or body. The rash forms blisters that typically scab over in 7–10 days and clears up within 2–4 weeks. You are infectious until your blisters completely scab over and clear up. Hence, 4 weeks is the minimum. To be on the safer side, 4 - 6 weeks is a maximum guess. Yes, if you are likely to come into contact with babies or pregnancy , it is best to stay away from them. Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar