Chicken Pox

Patient Information Sheet

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Chicken pox is an infection by a virus. It causes a fever and an itchy rash. The rash starts as a small red bump, then turns into a small blister in a short time. New blisters form for 3 to 4 days.

The incubation time of chickenpox is 2 to 3 weeks. Chickenpox is contagious from just before the rash, to 5 days later or until the blisters are crusted, whichever period is shorter. It takes about 2 weeks for the scabs to fall off.

Fever Control:

• use acetaminophen (Tylenol®) unless there is an allergy to Tylenol
• do NOT use Aspirin® - this could lead to Reyes Syndrome which causes brain and liver damage

Itch Control:

• use an over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl® plain, or Benadryl Elixir® for children
• use plain calamine lotion on the rash, but not on any sores in the mouth
• use lukewarm water baths for the first few days - add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the water - the person can bathe for 30 minutes - oatmeal bath products like Aveeno® many help
• keep cool and dry - sweating and overheating will make the itch worse - avoid the sun

Prevent Scratching

• keep fingernails cut short
• wash hands with soap that kills germs
• put socks on your child's hands at night

If there are mouth sores ...

• use mouth wash or gargle with double-strength tea with a little sugar - popsicles may help soothe the mouth

Give plenty of fluids: Use cool liquids like water, milk and apple juice. Avoid orange juice and salty foods.

DANGER SIGNS IN CHICKENPOX: See a doctor if ... the sores get bigger or have pus in them, or if there are sores anywhere in the eyes. Visit the OUCC or an Emergency Department if ... the person is vomiting, the person is confused or too sleepy there are convulsions or seizures, or there is trouble breathing or the breathing is too rapid.

 

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