Tips For Parents
Chickenpox is a virus so there is no cure for it. Your child’s
immune system should deal with the virus over the period of a few
days but in the meantime here are some practical things to
consider.
Help With The Symptoms
Applying Care ViraSoothe to the chickenpox rash will reduce the
itch and help avoid scratching. Keep your child as cool as
possible. Dress your child in light, loose clothing and keep
bedding to a minimum. Keep your child’s fingernails clean and short
to prevent deep scratching and make sure your child drinks plenty
of water. This will help prevent dehydration.
Who You Should Inform
If your child has chickenpox, they will be infectious from
before the first spots appear until the last blister has scabbed
over. To prevent further spread, children with chickenpox should be
kept off school, nursery or playgroup. You should let them know
that your child has chickenpox.
People You Should Avoid
Most people who come into contact with your child with
chickenpox will suffer no ill effects at all. If they have
previously had chickenpox then they should have immunity from it
for the rest of their lives. The lady next door who might be
willing to baby sit while you go to the shops is not going to catch
shingles from your child. You should keep your child away from
people who have not had chickenpox, especially newborn babies,
pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system. If you or
your child has recently been exposed to the chickenpox virus, you
may not be able to visit friends or relatives in hospital. You
should telephone the ward to check first.
You’re Not On Your Own
The one thing you can be sure of is that your child won’t be the
only one in the area to have chickenpox. They probably caught it
from someone at school, nursery or playgroup so find out who else
has got it and get together. Having tea/lunch at each other’s homes
means you can compare notes and the kids can play together and
compare spots. You can even take it in turns to baby sit in order
to get the shopping done.
What To Eat
For children over 4, sugar free ice-lollies can help to lower
temperature and provide fluids, as well as soothing a sore mouth if
it has become infected. Avoid foods that may make the mouth sore
(such as salty foods) and try having soups as they are easy to
swallow (just make sure the soup is not too hot).