Sorry to be a pain. Ive already been given advice about my mum who had suspected shingles. She was diagnosed it was shingles on Monday. The doctor told her she should be ok in 4 to 5 days which seemed a bit quick. Its been 3 days and more spots have appeared My problem is my husband is worried im at risk if i visit too soon as im having chemotherapy. Can you advice on what would be a safe time to visit. Ive read so many different things. I obviously don’t want to put myself at risk but don’t want to be too dramatic either. Thank you.
I think it would depend on what treatment they have given and how quickly it works but as far as I know until the lesions have dried and scabbed over she would still be contagious - I would have thought at least a week. My partner was advised to use E45 to prevent the skin / scans from cracking open which would prolong the infection . You could run it by your treatment team but I think they would tell you to stay away though the risk might be less if the spots / lesions are all covered by clothes .
As the weather is nice could you maybe pretend it’s still lockdown and have a distanced visit in a garden or something - it’s hard as when you aren’t at your best you need your Mum. You would both have to be very careful with your hand hygiene though . Xx
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Hi debi1
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Hello debi1
Thank you for your post asking about when is it safe to visit your mum who has suspected shingles. It is understandable you and your husband want what is best for you as you are having chemotherapy.
It is important for you to avoid being with people who have infections as chemotherapy may cause you to have a weakened immunity system making it harder for your body to fight infection.
As@JoanneN says, do speak to your breast care nurse or treatment team to ask them for their specific advice.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Helen
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