Chicken Pox

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CHICKEN POX is a common viral disease of childhood that causes a blister-like rash on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. After exposure, symptoms may develop 1 ½ to 3 weeks later. Children are contagious 1-2 days before the lesions develop until the last lesion is crusted over (usually 1-2 weeks)

Chicken pox usually begins with mild fever for 1-2 days, followed by the blister-like rash which typically starts on the trunk and face, then spreading to the rest of the body (including scalp, inside the mouth and ears, etc.) Generally, this is a mild illness in children, however, can be deadly in person who have a weakened immune system such as those with leukemia or people on chronic steroid therapy.

TREATMENT:

Since chicken pox is a viral illness, there is no specific treatment available to otherwise healthy children. Here are some suggestions to help minimize discomfort:
Aveeno or baking soda baths
Calamine lotion to alleviate the itching
Keep fingernails short to minimize scratching and help prevent secondary infection of the lesions
Benadryl may relieve itching
Tylenol or Motrin as needed for fever and discomfort; Aspirin should never be given to children with chicken pox or any other viral infection
If any of the lesions or involved skin is intensely red, swollen, warm to touch, or draining pus, contact us as soon as possible

In the last ten years the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended the use of Varivax for the prevention of chicken pox. It is greater than 95% effective in preventing chicken pox and is given at 12 months of age and a booster shot is given at age 5 (or later as a catch-up immunization). In North Carolina, children born on or after April 1, 2001 are now required to receive one done of Varicella vaccine on or after age 12 months and before age 19 months.

Chicken Pox

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