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How to Care for Someone with Chicken Pox
Identifying Chicken Pox
Chicken pox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a common illness in the UK, especially among children. It typically presents as an itchy rash with red spots and fluid-filled blisters. Symptoms also include fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite. It's essential to correctly identify chicken pox early to begin appropriate care.
Isolating the Patient
Chicken pox is highly contagious, so isolation is crucial. The individual should stay at home and avoid contact with non-infected people for about 5-7 days from the onset of the rash until all the blisters have crusted over. This helps to prevent the spread of the infection.
Relieving Itching
The itching can be severe. To alleviate it, use anti-itch lotions such as calamine lotion or antihistamine medications recommended by a pharmacist. Cool baths with added baking soda or colloidal oatmeal can also provide relief.
Managing Fever and Pain
Paracetamol is generally recommended to reduce fever and pain. Avoid giving aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, which can be serious.
Maintaining Hydration and Nutrition
It's important to encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids such as water, fruit juices, and soups to stay hydrated. Soft foods are best if mouth sores are present. A balanced diet helps in quicker recovery.
Preventing Scratching
Scratching can lead to infections and scarring. Keep the patient's nails trimmed short and consider using mittens for younger children. Distraction through activities or entertainment might also reduce the urge to scratch.
Monitoring Secondary Infections
Keep an eye on any signs of bacterial infection like increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus at the site of blisters. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.
Seeking Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if the patient has a weakened immune system, is pregnant, over 12 years old, or if there are complications such as breathing difficulties or persistent high fever.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
Consider vaccination for chicken pox, especially for those who haven't had it, to protect against future infections. In the UK, the NHS provides the chickenpox vaccine for those in high-risk categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the initial symptoms of chickenpox?
The initial symptoms include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headache, followed by the appearance of red spots which turn into itchy blisters.
Is chickenpox contagious and how does it spread?
Yes, chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with the blisters or via airborne transmission from respiratory droplets.
How long is someone with chickenpox contagious?
An individual is contagious from about 1-2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have formed scabs, which usually takes about 5-7 days.
What home remedies can help alleviate itching?
Taking lukewarm baths with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal, or colloidal oatmeal can help relieve itching. Applying calamine lotion and wearing loose, cotton clothing also help.
Can pain and fever be managed with medication?
Yes, paracetamol (acetaminophen) can be used to reduce fever and relieve pain. Avoid giving aspirin to children with chickenpox due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
How should chickenpox spots be cared for?
Keep the skin clean and dry, and trim fingernails to prevent scratching and infection. Apply a topical antibiotic to any bacteria-infected blisters.
Can antihistamines help with chickenpox?
Yes, antihistamines like cetirizine or diphenhydramine can help reduce itching and improve comfort.
Should someone with chickenpox stay home from school or work?
Yes, they should stay home until all chickenpox blisters have scabbed over to avoid spreading the virus.
What complications can arise from chickenpox?
Complications can include bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, encephalitis, and in rare cases, severe infection in those with a weakened immune system.
When should you seek medical advice for chickenpox?
Seek medical advice if the person has breathing difficulties, persistent high fever, severe headache, confusion, stiff neck, or signs of bacterial infection such as redness, warmth, or pus around the blisters.
Can chickenpox be prevented?
Yes, the chickenpox vaccine (varicella vaccine) is highly effective at preventing chickenpox and its potential complications.
How should the fever be monitored in someone with chickenpox?
Regularly check the temperature and ensure the person stays hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeine-based drinks.
Is it necessary to isolate household members?
Isolate the infected person as much as possible, especially from newborns, pregnant women, and individuals with a weakened immune system who are at higher risk of severe disease.
Can a person get chickenpox more than once?
It is rare, but a person can get chickenpox more than once. However, the virus can later cause shingles in individuals who have previously had chickenpox.
What dietary considerations should be made during chickenpox?
Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Soft, bland foods might be preferable if blisters are present in the mouth.
Useful Links
Useful links from: How to Keep a Child With Chickenpox Comfortable
- NHS - Chickenpox Official NHS page providing comprehensive information on chickenpox, including symptoms, treatment, and tips for keeping a child comfortable during the illness.
- NHS - How to Treat Chickenpox at Home NHS guidelines on how to treat chickenpox at home, offering valuable advice to help alleviate symptoms and keep a child comfortable.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital - Chickenpox Information from Great Ormond Street Hospital about chickenpox, including advice on symptom management and comfort measures specifically for children.
- Patient.info - Chickenpox in Children A UK-based charity providing detailed information on chickenpox in children, with tips on keeping them comfortable and managing symptoms effectively.
Useful links from: Dealing with Common Childhood Illnesses
- NHS - Childhood illnesses This NHS page provides an overview of common childhood illnesses and how to spot their symptoms. It also covers when to seek medical advice.
- NHS - Common health questions: Children's health A collection of frequently asked questions about children's health, answered by the NHS. Topics include fever management, vaccinations, and dealing with common ailments.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital - Conditions and Treatments Great Ormond Street Hospital's resource for understanding various childhood conditions and the treatments available. The site offers detailed information on specific illnesses.
- The Lullaby Trust - Illnesses and infections The Lullaby Trust provides advice on safer sleep for babies and key information on dealing with illnesses and infections in infants.
Useful links from: Common health questions about chickenpox | NHS
- NHS - Chickenpox Overview Comprehensive overview of chickenpox, including symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips provided by the NHS.
- NHS - Chickenpox Treatment Detailed information about chickenpox treatment and relief measures available through NHS resources.
- NHS - Chickenpox Vaccination FAQ about the chickenpox vaccine, its effectiveness, and eligibility criteria, provided by the NHS.
- British Skin Foundation - Chickenpox Information Information on chickenpox, its symptoms, complications, and treatments provided by the British Skin Foundation.
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- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
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- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
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