What should you know about control of chickenpox?

Chickenpox, also called varicella, is an infection that commonly causes an itchy rash, fluid-filled spots, and fever. New spots can appear while earlier ones begin to dry and form scabs. The virus can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets, so a person with chickenpox should stay away from school, work, and people at higher risk until the spots have crusted over and a clinician says it is appropriate to return.

Keeping fingernails short, washing hands, and avoiding scratching can reduce damage to the skin and the chance of bacterial infection. Loose clothing and a comfortably cool environment may make itching easier to tolerate. Chickenpox is different from shingles, although both are linked to the same virus family.

Offer frequent fluids and rest, and use age-appropriate fever relief only as directed by a healthcare professional or the product label. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an oral antihistamine is suitable for troublesome itching. Do not give aspirin to a child with chickenpox, and check before using anti-inflammatory medicines because they may not be appropriate in this situation.

Do not burst the blisters. Gentle bathing, patting the skin dry, and clean clothing can help protect irritated areas. Avoid sharing towels, clothing, bedding, or personal items. Contact a GP promptly if the person is pregnant, has a weakened immune system, is a newborn, or has significant underlying illness, because early assessment may affect treatment choices.

Arrange medical assessment if the fever is persistent or returns, the skin becomes increasingly red, warm, swollen, painful, or produces pus, or the person is drinking very little. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, confusion, a severe headache, repeated vomiting, difficulty walking, or a rash involving the eye. These signs can indicate a complication or another condition needing prompt attention.

A GP consultation can help confirm the diagnosis, review risk factors, and decide whether antiviral treatment is appropriate. Do not wait for the rash to worsen before asking for advice when the person belongs to a higher-risk group.

Ask which fever medicine and itch treatment fit the person’s age, medicines, and health conditions. You can also ask how long to avoid close contact, whether any blister looks infected, whether antiviral treatment is needed, and when chickenpox vaccination should be discussed for household members or future prevention.