CHICKEN POX

Chicken pox is a viral infection that usually strikes in the school-aged years. The incidence of chicken pox has been reduced greatly due to the chicken pox vaccine given at the one-year visit.

The incubation period for chicken pox is 10-21 days. This means that a person has the chance of coming down with chicken pox 10-21 days after being exposed. A person is contagious for 2 days before the rash breaks out and until all the lesions are crusted over.

If your child develops chicken pox, the progression of the infection is as follows:
1. Moderate to high fever, general malaise
2. Small red bumps
3. Thin-walled water blisters
4. Cloudy blisters
5. Open sores
6. Dry brown crusts

The child can go through all stages within 24 hours and also can be in several stages at the same time.
The child can develop new pox lesion for 5-6 days-usually requiring 1 week to 10 days until they are all crusted over.

We recommend symptomatic treatment for chicken pox.

These include:
-Ibuprofen or Tylenol for fever and pain control. NEVER use Aspirin, as there is a risk of Reye's syndrome developing.
-Benadryl for itching.
-Aveeno or baking soda baths for itching
-Increase fluid intake during illness
-Rest

Your child needs an appointment for:
-Scabs filled with pus or reddened lesions larger than a dime
-Fever lasting longer than 4 days
-Child becoming more ill

The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional care.
You should consult your own physician or other health care provider for specific advice and treatment,
which advice and treatment will be based upon your individual facts and circumstances.