Helath Alert
CHICKENPOX
What is it?
Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by a virus.
How can it be recognized?
The four stages of the rash are:
·
A red papule (bump);
·
A vesicle (clear blister) appears on top of the papule;
·
The vesicle becomes a pustule (its content becomes gray); and
·
The pustule dries into a crust.
They appear in crops, over a period of up to four days. Several stages may be present at the
same time. The child may have papules, blisters, and pustules up to four days. They may leave
permanent scars, especially if the blisters get infected by bacteria. Fever can be anywhere from
none to very high, and may appear a few days before the rash.
How long does it take, from exposure to development of the disease (incubation)?
Two to three weeks.
When is it contagious?
From five days before the rash appears until six days after the appearance of the first crop of
blisters, or until the spots are all dried and crusted, whichever is longer.
How is it spread?
By droplets from the nose, mouth or throat, usually expelled by a cough or sneeze. It can also be
spread by direct contact, such as eating, drinking, or sharing personal items, or from the fluid
from the blisters of an infected child (respiratory and direct contact spread). The scabs are
not
contagious.
What should be done?
·
Isolate the child from other children.
Chapter 5 Childhood Injuries & Illnesses
Good Health Handbook
108 July 2007
·
Notify the parents to pick up the child.
·
Wash articles soiled by discharge from nose, throat, and blisters.
·
Watch closely for early symptoms in others for up to three weeks.
When can the child be re-admitted?
Six days after the appearance of the first crop of blisters or when all blisters are scabbed over and
dry.
What can be done to prevent the spread of Chickenpox?
·
Make sure all children are immunized.
·
Anyone coughing or sneezing should cover his or her nose and mouth.
·
Do not allow eating or drinking after others.· Careful hand washing may help prevent the spread.
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