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In the last month in HCMC there has been numerous cases of chickenpox in the community. Please read the following information and call Family Medical Practice if you have questions.
What is the ChickenpoxChickenpox is a common illness among kids particularly those under 12. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
Symptoms of Chickenpox
 Chickenpox causes a red, itchy rash on the skin that usually
appears first on the abdomen or back and face and then spreads to
almost everywhere else on the body. The rash begins as multiple small,
red bumps that look like pimples or insect bites. They develop into
thin-walled blisters filled with clear fluid, which becomes cloudy. The
blister wall breaks, leaving open sores, which finally crust over to
become dry, brown scabs and appear in bouts over 2 to 4 days. Some
children have fever, abdominal pain, sore throat, headache, or a vague
sick feeling a day or 2 before the rash appears.
ContagiousnessChickenpox is contagious from about 2 days
before the rash appears and lasts until all the blisters are crusted
over. A child with Chicken pox should be kept home from school until
all blisters have dried, usually about 1 week. If you are unsure about
your child, ask your doctor. To help keep the virus from spreading,
make sure your kids wash their hands frequently, particularly before
eating and after using the bathroom.
VaccinationDoctors recommend that kids receive the chickenpox
vaccine when they are 12-24 months old. The vaccine is about 70% to 85%
effective at preventing moderate to severe forms of the infection. It
is now recommended that a booster be given at 4 years of age. Some
immunized kids will still get Chickenpox though it will be a much
milder illness.
Dealing with the discomfort of Chickenpox by:
- Using cool wet compresses or having cool or lukewarm baths.
- Using calamine lotion on itchy areas (avoiding eye area).
(Ask your doctor or pharmacist about pain relieving creams)
NEVERNever use asprin to reduce pain or fever in children with chickenpox.
Pregnant woman should not be near a person with chickenpox, especially
In the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus is at risk for birth defects.
Call your doctor if you think your child has chickenpox. If you have
any questions please call Family Medical Practice and we will help you.
Our 24 hour number is 822 7848.
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