Most children have chickenpox at some stage. Chickenpox is contagious from 2-4 days before the rash first appears until all the spots have crusted over (commonly about 5-6 days after onset of the illness).

The virus travels in the air and then settles on clothes, bedding, etc. A child with chickenpox is likely to pass it on to most classmates and household members who have not already had it. It takes 11-20 days to develop symptoms after catching the virus (the 'incubation period').

It is caused by virus. During the infection the immune system makes antibodies. These fight the virus and then provide lifelong immunity. Therefore, it is rare to have more than one bout of chickenpox. People long ago felt that blisters looked like chick peas placed upon the skin that is how chickenpox got its name.

SYMPTOMS:

Fever 101 degree F to 105 F or very mild, head and body ache, usually starts a day or so before rash/rashes appear.
Rashes develop into small blisters having itching. Blisters can be anywhere or on the whole body, and sometimes in the mouth. Small pox blisters may develop over several days. .
Sore throat and dry cough are common in children.
Illness in children varies from mild to acute. Mostly recovery takes a week and blisters dry up. , but may take up to, two weeks or so to go completely.

PRECAUTIONS & MEDICATION:

To avoid dehydration give lot of liquid.
To ease fever, headaches, and body pains, give paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Apply calamine lotion or cream on the spots to ease itching.
On prescription, medicines like antihistamine tablets or liquid may help with sleep if itch is a problem. .
To stop deep scratching cut fingernails short.
Antiviral medication is prescribed in special circumstances where chickenpox can be more serious (children who have a poor immune system, newborn babies and in pregnant women).

COMPLICATIONS:

Spots scar if badly scratched.
Some times (1:10 cases) spots get infected with bacteria. If this occurs, the surrounding skin becomes red and sore. In such cases antibiotics may be required.
An ear infection develops in about 1:20 cases.
Pneumonia and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) are rare complications. See a doctor if the child develops any worrying symptoms such as:
Breathing problems
Drowsiness
Convulsions
Pains or headaches which become worse despite paracetamol or ibuprofen
Becoming, generally, more and more unwell.

PROTECTION:

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