Chickenpox is a very common viral infection found among children, especially those under 12 years old. However, currently, it is less common among children due to the vaccinations they receive. A general pediatric doctor in Delhi shares that chickenpox is caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). In most cases, when there is an onset of normal illness before the appearance of the rash associated with chickenpox, it is a recognition sign that your baby is likely to come down with it.
Early Symptoms Before the Rash
Before the famous itchy rash shows up, your baby may seem mildly ill. The first signs can resemble a cold or flu and may include:
Irritability or fussiness
Loss of appetite
Mild headache
Sore throat or stomach discomfort
Low-grade fever (usually 101°–102°F or 38.3°–38.8°C)
These symptoms may persist for a few days before the rash becomes visible.
Chickenpox Rash
The rash usually appears on the stomach, face, or back and, almost instantly, spreads to other areas, such as the scalp, arms, legs, mouth, and even the genitals. What makes chickenpox different is the way the rash develops in three or more stages-often simultaneously.
Red bumps- These appear very much like insect bites or pimples.
Fluid-filled blisters- Within hours, bumps turn into itchy blisters.
Scabs- Sooner or later, the blisters burst and crust over.
Blisters- It usually take about a week to become scabs, during which time your child is contagious.
Other Signs and Other Risks
Most healthy babies recover well at home, but you should take extra precautions if your baby:
Perhaps they have a compromised immune system.
Was recently around someone with chicken pox or shingles
It has been less than a month, and you have never had chickenpox or received the vaccine.
When to Call A Child Doctor?
Has had a fever for more than 4 days
Seems overly drowsy or confused, or vomits
Signs of difficulty breathing or walking
Has blisters in the mouth, refusing to eat or drink
Has pus-filled or becoming more red and swollen rash areas.
Immunisation remains the best preventive measure, offering protection from chickenpox disease and reducing the risk of complications like shingles later in life. For further details on chickenpox and immunisation, get in touch with the best paediatrician doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani.
