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Chickenpox, also called varicella, is very contagious rash that presents itself as small red bumps that turn into blisters that are filled with clear fluid. The base of the blister is usually pink and turns brown when it dries and crusts over. Blisters will spring up in waves causing some to be pink while others have already dried.
Chickenpox usually shows up on the face, scalp or trunk and then spreads to the rest of the body. A child with an average case of chicken pox will have between 250 to 500 blisters before it’s over with. Some children however, only get a few blisters.
A few days before the pox begin to appear, your child is contagious. During these early days, a child may be tired but usually does not exhibit any symptoms that would be concerning. This is why the disease spreads so easily.
Chickenpox usually poses no threat in a relatively healthy child and just has to run its course. You can soothe your child’s rash with over the counter ointments and cool baths containing baking soda or colloidal oatmeal. Additionally, a children’s pain reliever can help with fever and discomfort. Antihistamines can also help, but it is recommended that you talk to your doctor before you give your child an antihistamine.
Although it’s difficult at best, try to keep your child from scratching or picking at the sores to prevent infection and scarring.
Today, children are given a chicken pox vaccine that is very effective. If your child has not had this vaccine, talk to your doctor about getting it.
If you are unlucky enough to have a little one suffering from chickenpox, one product that many mums turn to is PoxClin CoolMousse, a wonderful product that offers fast effective relief from the painful itching and scratching. This soothing CoolMousse absorbs directly into the skin, unlike many of the alternative creams currently available, that remain on the surface of the skin or get wiped off on clothes, bedding or furniture.
PoxClin CoolMousse is available in all good pharmacies around the country. If you would like further information, you can email Pharmed.