When can a child with Varicella (chickenpox) be around other children?

A child with Varicella (chickenpox) can be around other children once all vesicles have crusted over, which indicates that the infectious period has passed. Chickenpox is contagious from about one to two days before the rash appears until all the vesicles have developed into crusts. This crusting signifies the end of the contagious phase, reducing the risk of spreading the virus to others.

Waiting until the vesicles are fully crusted ensures that the child is no longer shedding the virus and is safe to re-enter communal environments without posing a health risk to others, especially those who may be at greater risk of complications from chickenpox, such as infants, pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals.