Chickenpox (Varicella Disease)

Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the varicellazoster virus, which results in a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever.

What to do if you have symptoms

• If you or your child has symptoms of chickenpox, call your healthcare provider immediately and keep yourself and/ or your child at home away from others.
• Stay home and away from other people and from public settings until you or your child has been cleared by a healthcare provider or all blisters have crusted over.
• Pregnant women who are not immune and get exposed, certain exposed newborn infants, and exposed persons with weakened immune systems should see their healthcare provider right away about possible treatment.

Complications

In most cases of chickenpox, in otherwise healthy children, bed rest, fluids, and control of fever are recommended. Children with chickenpox should not receive aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs, e.g., naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)] for reducing fever because of the possible risk of Reye’s syndrome or necrotizing fasciitis, a dangerous skin/tissue infection.

Complications of chickenpox are rare but can occur. Bacterial infections, as well as pneumonia, can occur in infants, adults, pregnant women, and immune-compromised persons. Diarrhea and dehydration are also a risk. Consult with a healthcare provider about medicines for controlling fever and if further treatment is needed for serious cases of chickenpox.

Vaccines

A vaccine to prevent chickenpox is available. The vaccine is recommended for all non-immune, healthy persons over 12 months of age. A second dose of the vaccine is recommended between four to six years of age. Two doses of the vaccine are required to enter schools in Washington State.

Immuniztion Information

• For children (birth to six years)
• For preteens and teens (7 to 18 years)
• For college students
• For adults
• For travelers

Immunization FAQs

• Childhood immunization
• Adult immunization

Prevention

Get vaccinated. It is impossible to predict who will have a mild case of chickenpox and who will have a serious or even deadly case of the disease. The vaccine is safe and effective.