Contagious Rashes - Chickenpox
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Chickenpox is a very contagious disease which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is spread by droplets from the nose or by touching fluid from skin blisters of an infected child. Chickenpox causes a rash which blisters and is very itchy, but it rarely causes any other complications.
Chickenpox is known as varicella.
Chickenpox has an incubation period of: 14-21 days
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- Fever - slightly raised temperature (mild fever)
- Rash - small, dark red spots that are very itchy. These appear in groups around the stomach/chest/back and face and then spread to the rest of the body
- Blisters - tiny blisters may develop in the mouth
- Fluid filled blisters - the rash develops into blisters that open up and crust over
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- See a doctor - any child with suspected chickenpox needs to see a doctor who can perform an examination to diagnose this condition
- Rest - the child should rest to help the body heal itself
- Fluids - plenty of fluids (water, natural juice)
- Lotion - the doctor will prescribe a lotion for relieving any itching of the rash spots (calamine lotion, paste of bicarbonate of soda mixed with water, watered down lavender oil)
- Cool bath - a cool bath with oatmeal and bicarbonate of soda added may help to reduce itchiness
- Medication - the doctor may advise giving the baby paracetemol or ibuprofen to reduce the fever
Note: Keep children with chickenpox away from pregnant women, as the virus can not only infect her, but the unborn baby as well and this can cause birth defects.
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Last reviewed: 3 July 2009 || Last updated: 6 October 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or other supplements cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of nutrient supplement.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
