PATIENT INFORMATION
Chickenpox
What is chickenpox❓
An infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus
It is highly infectious, and is spread by contact with an infected person 👫
The virus is not fully cleared, and has the potential to recur as shingles
What are the symptoms of chickenpox❓
Rash: small, itchy, red spots/ blisters
Fever 🌡
Loss of appetite 🍏
Generally feeling unwell 🤢
How do you diagnose chickenpox❓
Having classical symptoms
Physical examination
How do you treat chickenpox❓
Soothing cream (example: calamine lotion)
Paracetamol (for pain or fever) 💊
Aciclovir (if poor immune system) 💊
Why should I worry about chickenpox❓
Additional bacterial infection of the skin
Scarring (if scratching)
Adults: infections of lungs, the liver or the brain (pneumonia, hepatitis and encephalitis, respectively)