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Chickenpox
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Skin Hair Nails

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus that typically results in an itchy, blister-filled rash.

Overview

Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most cases are in children under age 15, but older children and adults can get it. It spreads very easily from one person to another.

Symptoms

The classic symptom of chickenpox is an uncomfortable, itchy rash. The rash turns into fluid-filled blisters and eventually into scabs. It usually shows up on the face, chest, and back and then spreads to the rest of the body. Other symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Loss of appetite

Treatment & Management

Chickenpox is usually mild and lasts 5 to 10 days. Calamine lotions and oatmeal baths can help with itching. Acetaminophen can treat the fever. Do not use aspirin for chickenpox; that combination can cause Reye syndrome.

Chickenpox can sometimes cause serious problems. Adults, babies, teenagers, pregnant women, and those with weak immune systems tend to get sicker from it. They may need to take antiviral medicines.

Prevention

Once you catch chickenpox, the virus usually stays in your body. You probably will not get chickenpox again, but the virus can cause shingles in adults. A chickenpox vaccine can help prevent most cases of chickenpox, or make it less severe if you do get it.

Frequently Asked Questions

If the child has a high fever that does not respond to acetaminophen, shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urine output), develops a severe headache, or if the rash is unusually painful or spreading rapidly, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Also seek care if the child has a weakened immune system, is pregnant, or is over 12 years old, as adults are at higher risk for complications.
Keep the child isolated until all lesions have crusted. Wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals. Cover the rash with loose clothing, and disinfect surfaces regularly. Vaccinate household members who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine to reduce future risk.
dults are more likely to experience pneumonia, bacterial superinfection of the skin, or encephalitis. Watch for chest pain, difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, confusion, seizures, or worsening rash that turns into deep, painful ulcers. If any of these occur, seek urgent medical attention.
The rash typically progresses from red spots to fluid-filled blisters, then scabs, over 5–10 days. Children can usually return to school once all blisters have crusted over, which is usually about 5–7 days after the first rash appears. Adults may need to stay home until all lesions are scabbed to avoid spreading the virus.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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