Hi Craig,

I’m assuming you have a policy to confirm varicella immunity or vaccination at hire.

If a worker has immunity then they should not be restricted, regardless of pregnancy status.

If a worker lacks immunity and can’t be vaccinated, then they should be restricted from caring for patients on airborne precautions for disseminated zoster or primary chickenpox, and from direct contact with vesicles.

 

 

Melanie Swift, MD

Director, Vanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic

http://occupationalhealth.vanderbilt.edu

 

From: MCOH-EH [mailto:mcoh-eh-bounces@mylist.net] On Behalf Of Craig Thorne
Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2016 9:18 AM
To: mcoh-eh@mylist.net
Subject: [MCOH-EH] Should pregnant health care workers be restricted from caring for patients with active Shingles?

 

Everyone, a question came up today from one of our nursing homes that I could use your help with, if you have a reference:

 

Should pregnant health care workers be restricted from caring for patients with active Shingles?

 

Thank you.

 

Craig Thorne

 

Craig D. Thorne, M.D., MPH, MBA

Vice President and Medical Director

Employee Health and Wellness

Erickson Living

813 Maiden Choice Lane, Catonsville, MD. 21228-3679

443-257-0903 cell (preferred)

410-402-2224

410-469-3007 fax

 

http://www.ericksonliving.com

 

 

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