What Parents Should Know About Chickenpox

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a common childhood disease that primarily affects boys. The first ten years of one’s life Almost every child gets chickenpox at some point in their lives.It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and outbreaks are common in the winter and spring. The virus can also cause shingles (a nerve infection and skin infection). Chickenpox is usually a mild disease that clears up in about a week in healthy children. Children with weakened immune systems, newborns, adolescents, adults, and pregnant women are more likely to develop a severe illness.

Symptoms and Signs

Anyone who has not had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine is susceptible to the disease. Chickenpox illness typically lasts 4 to 7 days.

A rash that develops into itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually turn into scabs is the most common symptom of chickenpox. The rash may appear first on the chest, back, and face, then spread to the rest of the body, including inside the mouth, eyelids, and genital area. It usually takes one week for all of the blisters to turn into scabs.

Other common symptoms that may appear one to two days before the rash include:

● fever

● tiredness

● Headache

● Loss of appetite

Chickenpox typically causes children to miss 5 to 6 days of school or childcare.

How Can I Make My Child Feel Better?

To alleviate the itching and discomfort of chickenpox:

● For the first few days, apply cool wet compresses or bathe in lukewarm water every 3-4 hours. Oatmeal bath products, which are available in supermarkets and drugstores, can help relieve itching. (Baths do not spread the rash.)

● Pat (do not rub) the body dry.

● Apply calamine lotion to itchy areas (but not to the face, especially near the eyes).

● Consult your doctor or pharmacist about pain-relieving creams for genital sores.

● Consult your doctor about taking over-the-counter itching medication by mouth.

To avoid scuffing:

● Wear mittens or gloves on your child’s hands to prevent scratching while sleeping.

● Keep your fingernails clean and trimmed.

If your child has mouth blisters:

Because chickenpox in the mouth can make it difficult to drink or eat, give cold, soft, bland foods. Avoid foods that are acidic or salty, such as orange juice or pretzels.

● To help relieve pain, give your child acetaminophen.

● Never give aspirin to a child who has chickenpox. It can cause Reye syndrome, a serious illness.

Contact your pharmacist If your child has a severe headache, persistent vomiting, sensitivity to bright light, unusual sleepiness or confusion, breathing difficulties, or persistent coughing.

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