When is GP consultation recommended for chickenpox?

Chickenpox commonly causes an itchy, blistering rash with fever and tiredness. Arrange medical advice if the rash is difficult to distinguish from another illness, fever is persistent or worsening, or the person is a newborn, pregnant, or has a weakened immune system. A clinician can assess the skin, review medicines and decide whether prescription treatment or monitoring is appropriate.

Keep the skin clean, use cool measures to ease itching, and encourage fluids. Avoid scratching because broken blisters can become infected. Do not give aspirin to a child with suspected chickenpox, and check with a pharmacist or clinician before using medicines for fever or itching. Phone ahead before attending a surgery so staff can reduce contact with people who may be vulnerable.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, marked drowsiness, confusion, repeated vomiting, severe headache, a stiff neck, or a rash that becomes hot, very painful, swollen, or rapidly reddened. Urgent advice is also appropriate if the person cannot drink, is passing very little urine, or appears seriously unwell.

Ask whether the rash fits chickenpox, which fever or itch treatments are suitable, how to recognise a skin infection, and how long to avoid close contact with pregnant people, newborns, and anyone with reduced immunity.