This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common, usually mild illness that causes an itchy, spotty rash. It mostly affects children, though adults can get it too — often more severely. The rash goes through stages: red spots, fluid-filled blisters, and then scabs. Most cases clear up within 1 to 2 weeks without treatment, but chickenpox can be more serious in adults, pregnant people, newborns, and those with weakened immune systems.
When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP
- You're not sure it's chickenpox.
- You're concerned about yourself or your child.
- Tell the receptionist you think it might be chickenpox before going in to a GP surgery.
- Your or your child's chickenpox symptoms suddenly get worse.
- Your child has chickenpox and is showing signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet nappies.
- The skin around the chickenpox blisters is hot, painful and red (redness may be harder to see on brown or black skin).
Self-care information from NHS
- Drink plenty of fluids (try ice lollies if your child is not drinking).
- Take paracetamol to help with any pain and discomfort.
- Cut your child's fingernails and put socks on their hands at night to stop them scratching.
- Use cooling creams or gels from a pharmacy.
- Bathe in cool water and pat the skin dry (do not rub).
- Dress in loose clothes.
- Do not use ibuprofen unless you're told to by a doctor, as it may cause serious skin infections.
- Do not give aspirin to children under 16 years.
Common questions
How long does chickenpox last?
Chickenpox typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Spots appear over 3 to 5 days, then crust over and heal. Children are contagious from 1 to 2 days before the rash until all spots have crusted over (usually 5 days after the rash appears).
Can you get chickenpox twice?
It's very uncommon to get chickenpox twice — most people have lifelong immunity after one infection. However, the virus can stay dormant in the body and reactivate years later as shingles.
When should I worry about chickenpox?
Call 111 or see a GP if the rash gets infected (red, hot, painful skin around spots), if a child is dehydrated or very unwell, if an adult or pregnant person gets chickenpox, or if someone with a weakened immune system is exposed.
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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.