What should you know about impetigo and chickenpox together?

Chickenpox commonly causes an itchy rash that changes from spots to fluid-filled blisters and then scabs. Scratching can break the skin and allow bacteria to cause impetigo around individual lesions. Skin Blisters and Fever can occur with chickenpox, but a new spreading crust, pus, increasing warmth or pain suggests a clinician should reassess the skin. Shingles is a different condition and is usually distributed in a more localised pattern.

Arrange a GP Consultation, especially for an infant, pregnant person, adult, or anyone with reduced immunity. Keep nails short, wash hands, use clean clothing and bedding, and avoid picking blisters. Keep the person away from people who are pregnant, newborn or immunocompromised until a clinician advises that exposure is safe. Antihistamine Treatment may help itch when advised; Antiviral Treatment is considered in selected situations and must be discussed with a clinician.

Seek same-day advice for a rash that is rapidly worsening, very painful, hot, swollen or draining pus, or for persistent fever and reduced drinking. Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe drowsiness, a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, or rash near the eye. Do not assume every crusted blister is impetigo or every blistering illness is chickenpox.

Ask whether both conditions are present, how to care for infected lesions, which itch treatment is suitable, whether antiviral medicine is indicated and when vaccination or contact precautions should be discussed.