Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, causing an itchy, blistering rash. It is usually a mild illness in children but can be more severe in adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immunity.

• An itchy rash that starts as small red spots and progresses to fluid-filled blisters, then crusts over, typically appearing in waves over several days
• Fever
• Fatigue and loss of appetite
• Rash usually starts on the trunk or face and spreads to the rest of the body

• Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with fluid from the blisters.
• Highly contagious, particularly from one to two days before the rash appears until all blisters have crusted over.

• Diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic itchy, blistering rash appearing in crops.
• Laboratory testing is rarely needed and is reserved for uncertain or severe presentations.

Most healthy children recover with supportive care alone — rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever (aspirin should be avoided in children with chickenpox due to a rare but serious complication).

Calamine lotion or oral antihistamines can help relieve itching, and keeping fingernails short reduces the risk of scratching and secondary bacterial skin infection.

An antiviral medicine may be considered for adults, pregnant women, or people with weakened immunity, who are at higher risk of complications, particularly if started early in the illness.

Severe symptoms, breathing difficulty, or signs of secondary bacterial infection require prompt medical assessment.

• Complete routine varicella vaccination where available, which significantly reduces the risk and severity of chickenpox.
• Keep infected children away from school or childcare until all blisters have crusted over.
• Avoid contact with pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immunity if infected, as they are at higher risk of complications.
• Keep fingernails short to reduce scratching and skin infection.