What should you know about getting chickenpox as an adult?

Chickenpox, also called varicella, usually causes an itchy rash that changes from spots to fluid-filled blisters and then crusts. New spots can appear while older ones are healing, and fever, tiredness, headache, or reduced appetite may occur. The infection spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contact with blister fluid until lesions have crusted. A similar-looking rash can have another cause; shingles usually affects a more localised band of skin and follows reactivation of the same virus. See [Chickenpox](/conditions/chickenpox/), [Skin Blisters](/symptoms/skin-blisters/), and [Shingles](/conditions/shingles/).

Call a GP or clinic before attending so staff can reduce exposure to other patients. A clinician may confirm the diagnosis and decide whether antiviral treatment is suitable, particularly when started early or when you have a higher-risk health condition. Rest, drink fluids, keep nails short, and avoid scratching to reduce skin injury and secondary infection. Ask about an oral antihistamine for itch rather than choosing a product at random. Stay away from pregnant people, newborn babies, and people with weakened immunity until a clinician says you are no longer contagious. Do not share towels or clothing, and avoid work or school while new blisters are appearing.

Arrange prompt medical advice for suspected adult chickenpox, especially if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have a chronic lung condition. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe headache, confusion, repeated vomiting, dehydration, a rapidly worsening rash, or skin that becomes very painful, hot, and swollen. Fever that persists or returns also deserves assessment. Use [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) for symptom context and contact a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) service before travelling to a waiting room.

Ask whether the rash is chickenpox, whether you need [Antiviral Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antiviral-therapy/), and how long you should isolate. Discuss safe itch relief, warning signs, work or travel plans, and whether household contacts need [Chickenpox Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/chickenpox-vaccination/).