What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common infection that usually affects children under the age of 10 but can affect anyone at any age.
The Symptoms of Chickenpox
Chickenpox is very itchy and often more severe in adults. It is possible to get chickenpox more than once, although it’s unusual. The symptoms include:
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A temperature of over 38C, aches and pains, loss of appetite and generally feeling unwell
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Small red spots appearing on any area of the body that are itchy
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Spots that are filled with fluid and become blisters before scabbing over
Coping with Chickenpox
Drink fluids
It’s important that the person affected by chickenpox drinks plenty of fluids to help get rid of the virus quicker and prevent dehydration.
Lukewarm bath
A lukewarm bath can help soothe your child’s skin if they have chickenpox. Gently pat their skin dry with a clean towel and wash the towel immediately to prevent spreading the infection.
Take paracetamol
Give your child a suitable pain relief medication that contains paracetamol to help reduce fever and reduce their aches and pains.
Apply an anti-itch cream
Apply an anti-itch cream such as Eurax 10% Cream to soothe the skin and stop the spots from itching. Eurax is suitable for use on children over 3 and works for up to 10 hours.
Wear loose clothing
Wear loose, cool clothing that is made from soft materials such as cotton or linen to allow the skin to breathe and help prevent further irritation.
Change bedding
Changing the affected persons bedding frequently can help keep the skin and spots clean and help prevent infection. Wash bedding immediately to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
