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Question 713
Obstetric infection → Viral
Classification
Question
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Potential infectivity after VZIG
Question Stem
A non-immune pregnant healthcare worker has significant exposure to chickenpox and receives VZIG as post-exposure prophylaxis. During which interval should she be regarded as potentially infectious following the exposure?
Options
A
Days 1–7
B
Days 5–14
C
Days 8–21
D
Days 8–28
E
Days 14–28
Explanation
A non-immune pregnant woman exposed to chickenpox who receives VZIG should be managed as potentially infectious from 8–28 days after exposure. If VZIG is not given, the corresponding interval is 8–21 days. The extended interval after VZIG is therefore important when arranging contact with maternity services and susceptible individuals.
Option Validity
A) this does not cover the recognised post-exposure interval.
B) the interval extends substantially beyond day 14 after VZIG.
C) days 8–21 apply when VZIG has not been administered.
E) potential infectivity begins from day 8.
Further Reading
RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 13, Chickenpox in Pregnancy, Executive Summary and section 4.3.