MessengerMessenger

Is varicella-zoster contagious

This information was published by Bupa's Health Content Team and has been reviewed by appropriate medical or clinical professionals. To the best of their knowledge the information is current and based on reputable sources of medical evidence, however Bupa (Asia) Limited makes no representation or warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of the Content.

The information on this page, and any information on third party websites referred to on this page, is provided as a guide only. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Bupa (Asia) Limited is not liable for any loss or damage you suffer arising out of the use of, or reliance on, the information.

Third party websites are not owned or controlled by Bupa and any individual may be able to access and post messages on them. Bupa is not responsible for the content or availability of these third party websites.
Source : Bupa Medical Consultant
When infected with varicella-zoster virus, blisters will be found on the skin. Since these blisters, elongated in nature, resembles the body of the snake, hence it is commonly known to the public as ""snake"" in Hong Kong.

There are several rumours surrounding its infection. Some mistakenly believe that death is doomed when ""snake-like"" blisters were found surrounding the body, although this is not the case. And despite its snake-like appearance, it has nothing to do with snakes.

Quite a lot of people had contracted chickenpox during infantry. When recovered, varicella zoster virus that cause chickenpox will rest within the spinal nerve roots for the rest of your life. If such virus is triggered, they will be reactivated and transmitted along the nerves to bring about varicella zoster on the skin. Thus, one will be free from this disease unless he or she has once been infected with chickenpox.

If you have never been infected with varicella zoster but come into contact with patient’s blisters, what you will contract is chickenpox rather than varicella zoster. Chances of infection caused by daily contact are very low.
More ContentHide Content

More Insurance Tips

rec hero
Bupa Hero VHIS Apply online
  • Full cover up to HK$40 million per year with two areas of cover available: Asia, Australia and New Zealand or worldwide (excluding the United States)
  • Premiums as low as
    HK$256/Month View
    rec safe
    Bupa Safe Critical Illness Apply online
  • Covers up to 85 critical illnesses and provides up to 3 lump sum payments
  • Subscriptions as low as
    HK$36/Month View
    Back to article list
    Cookies help us provide you with the best Bupa experience We use cookies to analyse our website performance, to enhance and customise content and for advertising purposes. Please click “Acknowledge” to accept our use of cookies. To find out more please click Cookies Policy for details.
    Acknowledge