Chickenpox: Care Instructions

Overview

Chickenpox (also called varicella) is a common infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash and red spots or blisters (pox) on the skin all over the body. You also can have blisters on the scalp and in the eye. Getting the chickenpox vaccine can lower your risk of getting this disease.

Chickenpox is most easily spread from 1 to 2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over. That may be 7 days or more after the blisters first appear. It may take up to 2 weeks for the scabs to go away. Most healthy children need only home treatment for chickenpox. People who are older than age 12, are pregnant, or have a weak immune system may need medicine.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get plenty of rest.
• Try not to scratch the chickenpox rash.
• Take lukewarm or cool baths with oatmeal bath products to reduce itching. You can also add a handful of oatmeal (ground to a powder) to your bath. After your bath, pat, rather than rub, your skin dry.
• Wet a soft cloth with cool water alone or cool water mixed with baking soda. Put the cool compress directly on the skin to cool your skin and relieve itching.
• Use soothing lotions that can help dry chickenpox blisters, such as those that contain:
  • Phenol, menthol, and camphor, such as calamine lotion.
  • Oatmeal.
• Try not to get hot and sweaty, because it will make you itch more.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce fever and pain.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine, take it as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Ask the doctor about taking an over-the-counter antihistamine to help calm the itching. Do not use lotions or creams that contain antihistamines.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if you:

• Have a new or worsening cough, and you are short of breath.
• Have a fever with a stiff neck or a severe headache.
• Are sensitive to light or feel very sleepy or confused.
• Have eye pain or drainage.
• Have symptoms of an infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the blisters.
  • Pus draining from the blisters.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.