Chickenpox

Chickenpox has historically been a common viral infection, especially in children. It causes an itchy, blistering rash that is easily spread to others. Although it’s less common today due to the varicella vaccine, it’s important to know about it. 

At Banner Health, we are here to help. We offer expert care for chickenpox, from diagnosis and treatment to prevention and vaccination. Our goal is to make sure you and your family stay healthy and informed.

What is chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a contagious illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This virus spreads easily from person to person. You can catch it by:

• Breathing in droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze.
• Touching chickenpox blisters and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

Chickenpox used to be common in childhood in the U.S., especially in younger children. But the virus is less common today because of the varicella vaccine. The vaccine is a safe way to prevent this illness and other health problems that can occur during or later in life.

Who is at risk for chickenpox?

Chickenpox can affect anyone who has not had the illness before or has not been vaccinated. However, certain groups are at higher risk:

• Pregnant people: Those who are pregnant and have never had chickenpox or the vaccine are at greater risk if exposed to the virus. Chickenpox during pregnancy can cause complications for both you and the baby.
• People with weakened immune systems: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments or certain medications increase your risk for severe chickenpox.
• Older adults: Adults who did not have chickenpox as children or were not vaccinated can experience more severe cases of chickenpox.
• Newborns: Babies younger than 1 year old are at risk if exposed to chickenpox, especially if their parent has not had the illness or the vaccine.
• People in close contact settings: Due to how easily the virus spreads, people in close quarters, such as in large households, schools or childcare centers, are at greater risk.

What are the symptoms of chickenpox?

Chickenpox symptoms are easy to see. Your health care provider can look at your skin and know if you have chickenpox.

The main symptoms of chickenpox include:

• Itchy rash: Small, red spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters.
• Fever: A mild to high fever of 101°-102°F (38.3°-38.8°C). It usually starts a day or two before the rash.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches.
• Tiredness: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Loss of appetite: Not feeling hungry.

The chickenpox rash occurs about 10 to 21 days after coming into contact with someone with the virus. The rash usually goes through several stages based on the way the rash looks:

• Stage 1: Small, red spots form on the face, middle of the body or scalp.
• Stage 2: The rash turns into small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles.
• Stage 3: The blisters burst and form scabs or crusts. New spots and blisters can continue to appear for several days. Scabs slowly fall off over one to two weeks.

How is chickenpox diagnosed?

Chickenpox is usually diagnosed by appearance. Your health care provider will look at the rash and ask about your symptoms. Sometimes, they may do a blood test or take a sample from a blister to confirm the diagnosis.

How is chickenpox treated?

Most people recover from chickenpox without problems. Here are some tips to help manage the illness:

• Relieve itching: Use anti-itch lotion. Calamine lotion or oatmeal baths can help soothe itchy skin.
• Fever relief: Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce fever. Avoid aspirin, as it can cause serious complications.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body fight the virus.
• Avoid scratching: Keep your nails trimmed short and avoid scratching to prevent infection.
• Stay home: Avoid going to school or work to prevent spreading the virus. Stay away from people at high risk and those who haven’t had chickenpox. 

Sometimes, your provider might prescribe antiviral medicine if the chickenpox is severe or you are at high risk for complications.

When to see your health care provider

Most chickenpox cases can be managed at home. However, there are times when you should see a health care provider or go to the emergency department (ED). Here’s when to seek help:

See your health care provider if:

• The rash looks infected: If you notice pus, increased redness or warmth. 
• High fever: A fever higher than 102°F (38.9°C) that doesn’t go down with medication.
• Problems breathing: If you have trouble breathing or a chronic cough. 
• Worsening symptoms: If the rash covers most of your body or your symptoms worsen over time.

Go to the ED if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or bluish lips and fingernails 
• Severe headache or confusion
• Stomach pain with jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Uncontrolled bleeding or bruising
• Sudden, severe pain

If you’re unsure whether to seek medical attention, it’s always best to call your provider.

What complications are possible with chickenpox?

Most people recover from chickenpox without problems, but sometimes complications can happen. Here are some complications to watch for:

• Shingles: After chickenpox, the virus can stay in the body and reactivate later as shingles. Shingles also causes a painful rash and other symptoms. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests getting the shingles vaccine once you are age 50 or older.
• Bacterial infections: The blisters can get infected with bacteria, causing skin infections like cellulitis or impetigo. 
• Pneumonia: Chickenpox can lead to pneumonia, an illness in one or both lungs.
• Encephalitis or Reye’s syndrome: Sometimes, the virus can cause brain and liver swelling. 
• Bleeding problems: In rare cases, chickenpox can lead to issues with blood clotting, causing unusual bleeding or bruising.

In very rare cases, chickenpox could lead to death.

Ways to prevent chickenpox

Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox. The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective. It is usually given in two doses:

• First dose: Given at 12 to 15 months of age.
• Second dose: Given at 4 to 6 years of age. 

Other preventive measures include:

• Avoiding contact: Keep away from people who have chickenpox, especially if you have never had the illness or have not been vaccinated.
• Good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.

If you have questions or concerns about chickenpox, talk to your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist for more information and guidance.