chickenpox

Question 1

what are the symptoms of chickenpox?

Answer 1

It is characterized by a vesicular rash (small, erythematous macules appear on the scalp, face, trunk, and proximal limbs), often preceded by fever and malaise.

Question 2

what are the red flags for chickenpox?

Answer 2

• Associated complications e.g. dehydration
• People who are immunocompromised
• Pregnant women
• Infants aged 4 weeks or less – pain relief required
on prescription

Question 3

what is the lifestyle advice for chickenpox?

Answer 3

• Encourage adequate fluid intake to avoid dehydration
• Dress appropriately to avoid overheating or shivering
• Wear smooth, cotton fabrics
• Keep nails short to minimize damage from scratching
• Advise that children with chickenpox should be kept away from school or nursery until all
the vesicles have crusted over
o Chickenpox is infectious from 2 days before the spots appear to until they have
crusted over, usually 5 days after they first appeared

Question 4

what are the drug treatment options for chickenpox?

Answer 4

• Paracetamol if pain or fever are causing distress (avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Topical calamine lotion to alleviate itch
• Chlorphenamine for treating itch associated with chickenpox for children 1 and over