Chicken Pox

Summary:

Chicken pox is a contagious disease caused by a virus. Most children develop a rash that starts as red spots which become clear blisters. The blisters may be present anywhere on the skin, including the mouth, eyes, ears, vagina, and penis. The rash usually lasts about one week and itches. Fever may be present the first few days. The illness is no longer contagious once all the sores have crusted over (about seven days). At this time, the child may return to school. Other children who have not had chicken pox and are exposed may get chicken pox within three weeks. If your child has been exposed to chicken pox, allow normal activity unless the infection is detected.

Contact a Health Care Professional Immediately:

	Fever develops after sores have crusted over,
	Severe cough or difficulty breathing,
	Persistent vomiting,
	Severe headache,
	Unusual behavior, such as drowsiness, irritability, or confusion,
	Pus under scabs,
	Your child is immuno-compromised or has an underlying chronic illness.

Source of Infection/Mode of Transmission:

Symptoms:

Diagnosis:

Treatment:

Home Treatments:

	Keep your child out of school and away from other children who have not had chicken pox until all the sores have crusted over.
	Give your child Tylenol for pain or fever. Do not use aspirin.
	A cool bath several times a day may help the discomfort and itching. Calamine lotion applied to the spots may help.
	Keep your child’s fingernails short and wash hands frequently with soap and water.
	Covering your baby’s hands with cotton socks will help prevent scratching.

Geographic/Seasonal Distribution:

Protections:

Notes:

Please remember to notify the child’s school or day care of the infection. Your child may return to school once all the sores have crusted over (dried), typically after seven days of onset.

Links:

[Health Home] [ Asthma ] [ Chicken Pox ] [ Encephalitis ] [ Fifth Disease ] [ Poison Oak/Poison Ivy ] [ Vomitting & Diarrhea ]

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