Chickenpox is an extremely contagious disease caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus from the Herpes group. The disease is transmitted by contact and airborne droplets, and is quite harmless for healthy children. After an illness, a strong immunity is developed, but sometimes the virus can be activated again after many years and cause shingles. Severe disease is most often observed in children with weak immunity. If a weakened, unvaccinated child comes into contact with a patient with chickenpox, doctors recommend preventing the disease using immunoglobulin. The disease can be extremely dangerous for newborns if a non-immune mother becomes ill four days before or 2 days after birth.
Incubation period: 11 to 21 days
The patient becomes contagious from the first day the rash appears on the skin until the last vesicle crusts over.
Course of the disease
The disease begins with general malaise, a slight rise in temperature, then small nodular spots appear on the skin of the face and head, which spread throughout the body, accompanied by severe itching. After a certain time, the blistering spots dry out and heal, covered with a crust. Sometimes there is a 2nd or even 3rd wave of rashes.
When to call a doctor
During the same day, if you suspect your child has chickenpox;
Repeatedly, if the child’s skin itches very much with chickenpox; or
If there is swelling of the skin, severe diffuse redness, pain, and the appearance of purulent discharge from the pustules.
If an infant under 6 months is sick;
If your child has a very high fever;
Seek immediate medical attention if your child develops neck muscle tension or torticollis, seizures, or imbalance. If the child is lethargic, sleepy, or unusually agitated.
Doctor’s help
The doctor will prescribe an ointment against severe itching, or in severe cases an antihistamine in the form of drops. There are drugs that fight chickenpox, but they are prescribed for special indications.
Your help to the child
Cold rubs, cool chamomile baths, and loose cotton clothing can reduce severe itching. Babies need to change their diapers more often than usual, otherwise a warm, moist environment can increase itching and lead to inflammation. Today, doctors advise vaccinating children with an active chickenpox vaccine.