Overview

Chickenpox is a common disease caused by the varicella virus. Chickenpox causes an itchy rash and red spots or blisters (pox) on the skin all over the body. You also can have blisters on the scalp and in the eye. But getting the chickenpox vaccine can lower your risk of getting this disease.

Chickenpox is most contagious from 2 to 3 days before the rash develops until no new blisters form and all the blisters have crusted over. That may be 7 days or more after the blisters first appear. It may take up to 2 weeks for the scabs to go away. Most healthy children need only home treatment for chickenpox. People who are older than age 12, are pregnant, or have a weak immune system may need medicine.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get plenty of rest.
• Take warm or cool baths with oatmeal bath products, such as Aveeno. This will reduce itching. You can also add a handful of oatmeal (ground to a powder) to your bath. After your bath, pat, rather than rub, your skin dry.
• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce fever and discomfort. Read and follow all instructions on the label. No one younger than 18 should take aspirin. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Try not to scratch the chickenpox rash.
• Wet a soft cloth with cool water alone or cool water mixed with baking soda. Put the cool compress directly on the skin to cool your skin and relieve itching.
• Use soothing lotions that can help dry chickenpox blisters, such as those that contain:
  • Phenol, menthol, and camphor, such as calamine lotion.
  • Oatmeal, such as Aveeno Lotion.
• Do not use lotions or creams that contain antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
• Try not to get hot and sweaty, because it will make you itch more.