What should you know about new chickenpox virus?

Chickenpox, also called varicella, often begins with feeling unwell, fever, and reduced appetite before itchy spots appear. The rash can develop in crops, so spots may be at different stages at the same time. It spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with fluid from blisters. A person can pass it on before the rash is fully obvious and while new blisters are appearing.

After a previous infection, the virus remains inactive in the body and can later reactivate as shingles. Chickenpox and shingles are related but are not the same rash, so an uncertain diagnosis deserves clinical advice.

Contact a GP or health service for advice, especially if the affected person is pregnant, very young, immunocompromised, or has a significant medical condition. Stay away from people at higher risk until a clinician confirms when normal contact is safe. Do not scratch blisters; keep nails short, wear loose clothing, and use clinician-approved measures for itch and fever.

Antiviral treatment may be considered for some people when started promptly. An oral antihistamine can help itch for selected patients, but medicine choice and dosing should be checked with a clinician or pharmacist. Vaccination is a preventive option for eligible people who have not developed immunity.

Seek urgent medical care for breathing difficulty, confusion, severe headache, repeated vomiting, difficulty walking, dehydration, or a rapidly worsening illness. Get prompt advice if the skin becomes hot, very painful, increasingly red, or drains pus, as this can indicate a bacterial infection. New eye involvement also needs urgent assessment.

Ask whether the rash fits chickenpox, how long to avoid close contact, which medicines are safe, whether antiviral treatment is appropriate, and whether household members need vaccination or extra precautions.