Chickenpox (Varicella) Treatment & Prevention

Chickenpox Risk Factors

While chickenpox is most common in children, their experience tends to be mild. Those at a higher risk of developing serious chickenpox include infants, adults, pregnant women, those with chronic illnesses, those with weak immune systems, and those undergoing intense treatment like chemotherapy. Fetuses are at risk of being affected by chickenpox if their mother develops it while pregnant. Chickenpox can also lead to critical health complications when exposed to premature infants.

Heading - Chickenpox Treatment

The best way to combat chickenpox is to get vaccinated against it (available at Medcare). While there isn’t an exact treatment for chickenpox, symptoms can be soothed & managed until the person recovers.

Treatments that can soothe chickenpox symptoms are:

• Calamine lotion for irritated skin.
• Cooling gels are recommended to comfort itchy skin.
• Staying hydrated to keep dehydration at bay.

It is important to avoid the temptation to itch & scratch blisters caused by chickenpox. This could lead to permanent scarring.

Caution: Do not take ibuprofen for a chickenpox fever. It has been found to worsen the illness & lead to further medical complications; like infections. Only take pain relievers that your doctor has suggested or prescribed.

Chickenpox Prevention

The best way to protect yourself & your family from chickenpox is to get the vaccine. Traditionally, those that get chickenpox in their childhood are unlikely to contract it again, although there is always a risk. Two doses of the chickenpox vaccine can protect an individual for a lifetime.

Some ways to avoid chickenpox are:

• Distance yourself from an infected person until they completely recover.
• Avoid coming into contact with surfaces & objects that have been touched by someone with active chickenpox.
• Get the chickenpox vaccine.

Your health is at the heart of what we do. Our experts are always an appointment away to guide you through the right recovery plan.