Chickenpox can be a difficult time for both children and parents, with discomfort, sleepless nights, and worries about infection spreading to others. What’s more, those who contract chickenpox are at risk of developing shingles later in life, as the virus remains dormant in the body. At East Craigs Pharmacy in Edinburgh, we’re here to help parents through this challenging period with effective care tips and advice on the chickenpox vaccine to help prevent future cases.
Step 1: Recognise the Symptoms Early
The first signs of chickenpox usually include mild fever, tiredness, and a general feeling of being unwell. Within a day or two, the characteristic red spots appear, starting as small, itchy patches that develop into fluid-filled blisters. Early recognition helps parents act quickly to manage symptoms and prevent further spreading.
Step 2: Prioritise Comfort and Symptom Management
The itchiness and discomfort of chickenpox are often the most challenging aspects, especially for young children. Here’s how to make your child as comfortable as possible:
- Use Cooling Creams and Lotions: Apply gentle creams or lotions, like calamine lotion, to cool the skin and reduce itching.
- Oatmeal Baths: A soothing oatmeal bath can help relieve skin irritation. Simply add colloidal oatmeal to lukewarm bathwater and let your child soak.
- Keep Fingernails Trimmed: Short nails help minimise skin damage from scratching and reduce the risk of infection.
Step 3: Manage Fever Safely
Chickenpox often comes with a mild fever. Use paracetamol rather than ibuprofen, as ibuprofen may increase the risk of complications. Our team at East Craigs Pharmacy can recommend safe doses for your child based on their age and weight.
Step 4: Hydrate and Rest
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, as chickenpox can sometimes cause dehydration. Water, diluted juices, and clear broths are excellent choices. Adequate rest is also essential for recovery, so ensure your child gets enough downtime away from stimulating activities.
Step 5: Prevent the Spread of Chickenpox
Chickenpox is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact and airborne droplets. Keep your child home from school or nursery until all the blisters have crusted over, which usually takes about a week. To reduce transmission at home:
- Use Separate Towels and Bedding: Give your child their own towel and bedding, washed frequently to prevent spread.
- Limit Close Contact: Try to limit contact between the child and other family members, especially those who have not had chickenpox or are at higher risk of complications.
Step 6: Understand the Importance of the Chickenpox Vaccine
While chickenpox usually resolves on its own, it can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable individuals such as infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. The chickenpox vaccine provides effective protection, significantly reducing the chance of infection and helping avoid severe cases. Vaccination is especially beneficial in families with multiple children, as it can prevent the virus from spreading within the household.
East Craigs Pharmacy in Edinburgh offers the chickenpox vaccine for children and adults, providing a safe and effective way to prevent future outbreaks. The vaccine is particularly recommended for those who are at higher risk or wish to avoid the infection entirely.
Step 7: Use Antihistamines for Itch Relief
Oral antihistamines are sometimes helpful in reducing itchiness and can be used safely for children. At East Craigs Pharmacy, we can recommend an appropriate antihistamine to alleviate discomfort, especially at bedtime when itching can be most disruptive to sleep.
Step 8: Monitor for Complications
While rare, chickenpox can sometimes cause complications, such as bacterial infections from scratching, pneumonia, or encephalitis. Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus around blisters, and contact your healthcare provider if you’re concerned.
Step 9: Plan for the Future with Vaccination
For parents who haven’t vaccinated their children, the experience of chickenpox can be a reminder of the importance of preventive care. The chickenpox vaccine provides lasting immunity and can be administered at East Craigs Pharmacy in Edinburgh. By vaccinating, you protect not only your child but also those around them, helping to reduce the spread of the virus in the community.
Step 10: Enjoy Peace of Mind
Managing chickenpox requires patience, care, and a little extra support. At East Craigs Pharmacy, we’re here to provide guidance on symptom relief, preventive steps, and the chickenpox vaccine in Edinburgh to safeguard your child’s health. If you have questions or would like to discuss the vaccine, contact us to speak with our knowledgeable team.
This blog was written on behalf of East Craigs Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.