Chickenpox
Common ConditionHighly contagious viral infection causing itchy rash with blisters, usually mild in children but can be serious in adults and immunocompromised.
Symptoms
Itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters
Fever
Loss of appetite
Headache
Tiredness
Rash appears in waves
Blisters crust over in 1-2 weeks
Rash can appear anywhere on body
More severe in adults
May have mouth sores
Causes
1
Varicella-zoster virus2
Airborne transmission3
Direct contact with rash4
Highly contagious5
Contact with blisters before they crust6
Lack of vaccination7
Contact with shingles patient8
Crowded conditions9
School or daycare exposure10
Household contactTreatments
Antihistamines for itching
Calamine lotion
Cool baths
Acetaminophen for fever
Keep fingernails short
Antiviral medications (high-risk patients)
Treating secondary bacterial infections
Isolation until blisters crust
Adequate hydration
Prevention through vaccination
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor to confirm diagnosis. Seek immediate care for fever over 39°C lasting more than 4 days, severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, rash near eyes, or signs of skin infection.
Find a Specialist NowAbout Chickenpox
Chickenpox: Usually Mild, Sometimes Serious
Chickenpox is usually mild in children but can be serious in adults, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Vaccination prevents most cases and reduces severity if infection occurs.
"Huwag kamuting ang bulutong—magiging peklat lang."
Specialists Who Commonly Treat Chickenpox
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