Chickenpox is an acute contagious disease caused by the varicella zoster virus. Chickenpox is especially severe in adolescents and adults. It occurs mostly in children between the ages of five and nine. Symptoms include skin eruptions, slight fever, and malaise. About 10 to 21 days after exposure, an itchy, red rash of spots may appear on the face, scalp, chest, back, or limbs. The spots fill with a fluid and later open and turn crusty.

When one child becomes ill with chickenpox, the other children in the family will usually get it, too. A child can infect others one to two days before the rash starts, and until after the last new blister appears. The illness ranges from a mild rash, to hundreds of bumps and a fever as high as 105 degrees. If a fever lasts longer than three days, seek medical care.

Most children can handle chickenpox with simple treatment to reduce itching and fever. Self care includes:
* Acetaminophen given to reduce fever and decrease the discomfort. Be sure the appropriate dose is taken for your child's age and weight. DO NOT give aspirin.
* Keeping the child's fingernails short.
* Itching can be minimized. An antihistamine like Benadryl may be prescribed. Daily baths prior to bedtime are helpful. Baking soda or oatmeal may be added to the child's bath water to help with itching.

Most children with chickenpox recover within seven to ten days. Keep the child out of school for at least one week. Once a person has chickenpox, he or she will have lifetime immunity.

Chickenpox can be serious for those:
* who are HIV infected,
* who are pregnant,
* who have had organ transplants,
* who have chronic illnesses,
* who are receiving chemo or radiation therapy, and
* adults and teens who have not been previously infected.

A drug called acyclovir may be used to decrease the severity of infection in those who are at high risk. A preventive vaccine has been developed and is recommended to be given at 12 to 18 months of age. Ask you healthcare provider about the costs and benefits of this vaccine.

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