Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease that most children will catch at some point in their childhood if they haven’t been immunized against it.

The main symptom is a rash of red, itchy pimples that begins on the body or face and quickly spreads. The pimples turn into blisters which then break open and form scabs. Your child may also have a fever a couple of days before the rash appears.

Chickenpox lasts seven to 10 days but your child will be infectious for two days before the rash appears and five days after (or until the scabs crust over or stop reappearing), so you’ll need to keep her home from daycare or preschool. It’s also vital that you keep her away from pregnant women just in case they haven’t had chickenpox. If they catch it in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy it can harm an unborn baby. If you’re pregnant yourself and your older child has chickenpox tell your OB-GYN or midwife straightaway but don’t panic – it’s likely you had the illness as a child and are immune.

Treatment

Chickenpox clears up on its own but the itching can be unpleasant. Try to stop your child from scratching, as the pimples can easily scar or get infected. Cut her nails short so she can’t cause too much harm if she does scratch, and put scratch mitts or cotton socks on her hands at night if she’ll tolerate it. A tepid bath with baking soda added, or calamine lotion, can ease the itch. If your child has the pimples in he mouth give her soft, easily chewed food or soup to eat. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease her fever.

Call your pediatrician if your child’s fever rises above 102 degrees, if she seems sensitive to light, is vomiting or is hard to rouse; or if your older child complains of a headache or stiff neck. These signs could indicate complications.

Prevention

Your child can be vaccinated against chicken pox at 12-15 months and will need a booster shot at four to six years old. The vaccine is up to 85 percent effective for mild chickenpox and up to 95 percent effective for severe chickenpox. Once your child has had he illness she’ll be immune but she’ll be at risk of an illness called shingles in adulthood.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.