Kids' health - common conditions: Chicken pox
Chicken pox
What is it? A viral infection that produces a rash and spots.
What are the symptoms? Typical things to watch out for are:
- A rash, appearing as spots on body
- Fever and ache
- Feeling sick and a sore throat
What should I do? See your doctor to diagnose it and then just keep them at home, making sure they drink plenty of fluids and stop them scratching spots, as that could leave scarring.
How long will it last? The worst of the rash is gone in around 7 days.
When will they get it? 90% of kids have had chicken pox by the age of 15.
What if my child doesn't get it? If you get it as an adult the symptoms tend to be a bit more serious and last longer. It can be serious if you get it when pregnant. Many adults get shingles, which is caused by the same virus.
- Find out more about chicken pox in children
More common conditions
- Appendicitis
- Chicken pox
- Croup
- German measles/Rubella
- Glue ear
- Head lice/Nits
- Measles
- Mumps
- Ringworm
- Scarlet fever
- Slapped cheek syndrome
By Rob Mansfield
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