Identifying And Treating Chickenpox

Chickenpox is an extremely contagious disease, which generally affects kids.
It is usually a minor disease, but might cause severe illness or death in individuals who have a low immunity.
Adults who get chickenpox usually become ill and might have more severe problems such as pneumonia.

Firstly, a child (or grown-up) might have flu-like symptoms, including a high fever, backache, headache and loss of hunger.
This is swiftly followed by a pink and blotchy rash, which soon progresses into blisters. The rash usually starts on the back and chest, then spreads to other parts including the arms, legs, face and scalp.
The rash is generally extremely itchy. After about 2 days the blisters form a scab or a layer and this peels off in about two weeks. Some kids only get a few spots, while others get them all over — including the nose and mouth.

For some kids, the rash might be no more than a passing annoyance, but for others it can be very uncomfortable. Treatment is therefore meant to alleviate the symptoms.
Requesting your child not to scratch will possibly be ignored, though it is worth trying to distract them so they don’t scratch.
If the rash or blisters are very uncomfortable, wash the child in a warm bath and add half a cup of baking soda to the water.
Your chemist or GP will also be able to suggest some anti-itch creams if your child is upset. Calamine lotion can also be handy.
Paracetamol should be provided as suggested to decrease the fever and alleviate any headaches. Children should drink lots of liquids.