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Chicken pox is a highly contagious viral infection. It is contracted by both adults and children but most commonly occurs in those between the ages of five and ten. Chicken pox is most often contracted by unvaccinated children. However, ten to thirty percent of children vaccinated for chicken pox will also come down with the virus at some point in their lives. There are several different things a parent can try to sooth rash related to chicken pox. The best things parents can do are provide support for their immune system and keep them from scratching. One thing I've found that works is sprinkle a mixture of slippery elm and comfrey powder into the sores during the oozing stage. A sure fire thing to do to prevent scratching is to put socks over your children's hands. Garlic, licorice, and mushrooms are great for supporting the immune system. Try making a soup with these items so your children will be willing to eat them. When the sores have scabbed over, use lotions that contain chickweed, lavender, St. John's wort, or calendula to help with nerve healing and keep the skin supple to prevent scarring. You can also try giving them an oatmeal bath. Oats work wonders to soothe itchy skin or over-simulated nerves. All you need to do is place 6 cups of oats in water and boil for 5 minutes. Strain out the oats, place them in a sock or cheesecloth, and pour the oat water into the bath water. While your child is relaxing in the warm water, use your oat sock to wash them. This is very soothing to irritated skin. You could even make a paste out of the oatmeal and place it directly on the itchy spots. These are just a few of the things I've learned from my parents and from my son's pediatrician. There are many other methods you can use to help soothe your child's chicken pox. Just remember that everyone will have to deal with chicken pox. I remember when I got chicken pox. Of course, it was over my 3rd birthday party. Do your best to keep your child from scratching, it will only make things worse. Find things that will keep their little hands busy such as coloring or doing a craft project. Another thing i found is to take them swimming if it's warm enough. The cool water is soothing and the chlorine will dry the chicken pox out enabling them to heal faster. The best thing you can do for your child is comfort them and assure them that it won't last for long.
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