Chickenpox

Question 1

what is chickenpox

Answer 1

very contagious infection that causes itchy spotty rash

Question 2

how is chickenpox trasnmitted

Answer 2

via direct contact of chickenpox spots or droplets spread

Question 3

how long does chickenpox last

Answer 3

usually 4-7 days

Question 4

symptoms of chickenpox

Answer 4

-prodromal symptoms (symptoms that occur a few days before the rash): fever, muscle aches, headaches, loss of appetite
-when rash appears: spots can appear in groups (colour depends on skin but it’s usually red
-rash then develops into itchy small blisters that can burst and scab
-scabs can take 2 weeks to fade
-

Question 5

what are the complications of chickenpox

Answer 5

-secondary bacterial infections: when scratching of the skin can cause bacteria to enter the open wounds
-pneumonia more common for adults
-can develop chickenpox due to exposure of shingles

Question 6

treatment for practical measures

Answer 6

-no cure
-paracetamol for fever and aches
-for itchy spots: antihistamines such as chlorphenamine (Piriton) for 1+ years, for night time itching
-for itchy spots: soothing and cooling emollients/gels e.g. aqueous calamine cream

Question 7

practical measures for chickenpox

Answer 7

-avoid scratching by cutting fingernails
-wear loose clothing
-avoid extra layers to not overheat
-bathe in cool water
-drink lots of water
-keep away from work/school
-avoid immunocompromised, pregnant, new born
-vaccination available privately