Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a virus that spreads very easily. A child will show signs of chickenpox within 10 to 21 days of being exposed. It is contagious from 36 hours before the rash appears until all of the sores that develop have scabbed over (usually seven to 10 days).

What should be Your Preference?

The best way to protect children from chickenpox is to make sure they are immunized against this illness.

What to do If your Child has Chickenpox?

If your child develops chickenpox:

• Give your child acetaminophen (Paracetamol or Panadol). Do not give your child aspirin because it has been associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.


• Keep your child in the house and away from other children until all of the sores have developed scabs.


• Encourage your child not to scratch.


• Cut fingernails short to minimize damage and scarring that occurs when your child scratches the rash. Also, keep the child's hands clean to prevent infecting the rash.


• Cleanse the skin regularly and gently with soap and water.


• Apply calamine lotion to the rash to help minimize itching.


• Allow the child to soak for 15 minutes in a warm bath with one half cup of oatmeal to control itching. Do not rinse the skin after the bath. Gently pat the skin dry.


• Rinse the child's mouth with salt water (one half teaspoon salt to one cup of water) if sores develop in the mouth.

Take the child to the nearest health facility if your child:

• Has extreme itching that cannot be controlled with the steps listed above.


• Develops infected sores.


• Is very sleepy or has difficulty walking.


• Complains of neck pain or a stiff neck.


• Vomits.

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