How long should a child with Chickenpox be kept out of school?

emma

What is the standard guideline for school isolation? Is it until all the blisters have scabbed over completely, or is there a specific number of days? I want to be responsible and not spread the virus, but also don't want my child to miss more school than necessary.

dranil

The official guideline from health authorities like the CDC is clear: a child with chickenpox should be isolated and kept out of school, daycare, and public activities until all the pox lesions have fully crusted over and no new blisters are appearing. This is the definitive sign that the person is no longer contagious. While this process typically takes 5 to 7 days from the onset of the rash, it is the condition of the skin—not a specific calendar day—that determines when it is safe to return. This rule ensures your child is no longer shedding the virus, protecting other children, especially those who may be vulnerable to severe complications. While it can mean a week or so of missed school, it is the most responsible approach to prevent an outbreak.

olivia

The standard guideline for school isolation during chickenpox is to keep the child at home until all blisters have dried and formed scabs, which usually takes about 7 to 10 days after the rash first appears. This is because the virus is highly contagious from 1–2 days before the rash until all lesions have crusted over. Returning to school too early risks spreading the infection to others, especially those who are unvaccinated or immunocompromised. Once every blister has scabbed and no new ones are forming, your child is generally considered no longer contagious and can safely return to school.