Chickenpox
A very contagious infection causing an itchy, blistering rash.
Reviewed by TinyDose editorial team
Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy rash of fluid-filled blisters along with fever. It is usually mild but can be more serious in some children, and the virus stays in the body after recovery and can reappear later in life as shingles. The varicella vaccine reduces both the severity and the spread.
Symptoms
- Itchy rash that starts as flat red spots and turns into fluid-filled blisters
- Fever
- Tiredness and loss of appetite
- Spots appearing in waves over several days, often on the trunk first
How it spreads
Highly contagious, airborne spread via respiratory droplets, and direct contact with the blisters.
Why it's serious
Chickenpox is usually mild in healthy children but can cause significant discomfort. The risk of complications is higher in babies under 1, teenagers, adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
- Bacterial skin infections from scratching
- Pneumonia (uncommon but more likely in teenagers, adults and immunocompromised children)
- Encephalitis (brain inflammation), rare but serious
- Reactivation as shingles later in life
Most at risk: Unvaccinated children. Immunocompromised individuals, newborns and pregnant women are at risk of more severe disease.
How to prevent Chickenpox
Vaccination is the most effective protection. Chickenpox is prevented by:
Treatment
Mostly supportive care: keep nails short to reduce scratching, apply calamine lotion, give paracetamol for fever. Antiviral medication (aciclovir) may be prescribed for high-risk patients. Do not give aspirin to children with chickenpox.
Common questions
Sources
- Varicella vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2014.
Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.
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