Are there any complications of chicken pox?
- The spots do not usually scar unless they are badly scratched.
- In some cases, some spots become infected with bacteria. If this occurs the surrounding skin becomes red and sore. Antibiotics may then be needed.
- Inflammation of the lung (pneumonia) is a rare complication affecting about 1 in 100 adults with chicken pox.
- Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) is a very rare complication.
See a doctor urgently if you become breathless, confused, or if you have any unusual or severe symptoms. Also, pregnant women have a higher risk of developing complications. See a doctor urgently if you are pregnant and develop chicken pox.
Is chicken pox infectious?
Yes, it is very infectious. The virus travels in the air and then settles on clothes, bedding, etc. It takes 11-20 days to develop symptoms after catching the virus (the 'incubation period').
Protecting others
A person with chicken pox is infectious from 2-4 days before the rash first appears until all the spots have crusted over (commonly about 5-6 days after onset of the illness). You can usually return to work after this time if you feel well enough. Whilst you are infectious, keep away from people who may get a severe illness if they get chicken pox. These are:
- Pregnant women who have not had chicken pox in the past.
- People with a poor immune system. For example, people with leukaemia, with HIV/AIDS, on high dose steroid medication, or are taking chemotherapy.
Healthy people who have not had chicken pox may also want to avoid catching it. So, friends and family who have not had chicken pox may wish avoid you whilst you are infectious. However, most healthy adults and many children have already had chicken pox, and so are immune.
© EMIS and PIP 2006 Updated: June 2006 PRODIGY Validated
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