EMQ — Extended Matching Question · Review
Question 762
Obstetric infection → Viral
Classification
Question
EEMQQuestion Header
Select the single most appropriate infection-control advice.
Question Stem
A non-immune pregnant woman had significant exposure to chickenpox and received VZIG. She remains asymptomatic. During which period after exposure should she be regarded as potentially infectious?
Answer Bank
A
Days 1–7
B
Days 1–14
C
Days 7–14
D
Days 8–21
E
Days 8–28
F
Days 14–21
G
Days 14–28
H
Only after a rash develops
Correct Answer
E. Days 8–28
Explanation
After significant exposure, a non-immune pregnant woman who receives VZIG should be managed as potentially infectious from 8 to 28 days after exposure. In comparison, an exposed non-immune woman who does not receive VZIG is potentially infectious from days 8 to 21.
Option Validity
A) The potentially infectious interval does not begin immediately after exposure.
B) This does not represent the recommended interval after VZIG.
C) This interval is too short.
D) Days 8–21 applies when VZIG has not been given.
F) The interval begins earlier and extends longer after VZIG.
G) The recommended interval begins on day 8.
H) Infection-control precautions apply during the defined post-exposure interval even before a rash develops.
Further Reading
RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 13. Chickenpox in Pregnancy. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists; January 2015, minor update 2024.