Shingles isn t contagious unless you haven t had chickenpox. What happens is you get chickenpox, usually as a child, then the virus goes dormant in the body. Years later it can break out in a localized rash as shingles. So shingles itself can t be transmitted. However, since it is the same virus that causes chickenpox, if someone has not had chickenpox or been immunized for it, they can get it from the shingles patient who has the rash. So unless some one is susceptible that way, there is no reason to have her stay home, especially since she has no rash and the doctor isn t even sure yet. If she does get a rash, she can keep it covered while she is working with a bandage, and then with her shirt over that. Things should be okay that way. Frequent handwashing is important for her and everyone else as well. Hope this helps.