Chickenpox (medical name: varicella) is a common viral infection in children, caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It's usually mild in healthy children, but it can be uncomfortable and sometimes lead to complications.
🧒 Who gets it?
Mostly affects children under 10
Spread easily through coughs, sneezes, or direct contact with the rash
People who've had chickenpox usually won't get it again
🧬 Symptoms of Chickenpox in Children
Symptom Description
Rash Starts as red spots, turns into itchy blisters, then scabs over
Fever Mild to moderate fever often appears before the rash
Fatigue & irritability Child may feel tired, fussy, or unwell
Loss of appetite May eat less than usual
Headache Sometimes occurs before the rash appears
The rash usually starts on the chest, back, or face, then spreads to the rest of the body (including inside the mouth, eyelids, and genitals).
🧼 Treatment (At Home)
Chickenpox is a viral infection, so antibiotics won’t help unless there’s a bacterial complication.
🩺 Home care tips:
Itch relief:
Use calamine lotion or cool baths with baking soda, oatmeal, or colloidal oatmeal
Keep nails trimmed to prevent scratching and infection
Fever:
Use paracetamol (acetaminophen) — NOT aspirin (risk of Reye’s syndrome)
Hydration:
Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration
Rest:
Let your child rest at home until scabs form and no new blisters appear
🚫 When to Seek Medical Help
Call a doctor if your child:
Has a high fever for more than 4 days
Develops blisters that become very red, warm, or painful (sign of infection)
Is very drowsy, confused, or has difficulty walking
Has trouble breathing
Is under 3 months old and showing symptoms
Has a weakened immune system
💉 Chickenpox Vaccine
Varicella vaccine is available and highly effective
Given in 2 doses (usually at 12-15 months, and again at 18-19 months)
Greatly reduces the risk of infection or makes symptoms much milder
🦠 How Long Is Chickenpox Contagious?
Contagious 1–2 days before the rash appears until all blisters have crusted over
Usually about 5–7 days in total
Keep the child home from school or daycare during this time
✅ Summary
Key Point Detail
Cause Varicella-zoster virus
Spread by Airborne droplets & direct contact
Symptoms Rash, fever, fatigue
Treatment Supportive care at home
Prevention Vaccine (varicella)
When to call doctor High fever, infection signs, difficulty breathing, under 3 months old
