Chickenpox is a common childhood illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is highly contagious and can spread easily from one person to another.

If your child has chickenpox, it is important to know the dos and don’ts of dealing with the illness to ensure their comfort and prevent further complications. Here are some guidelines to follow:.

Do:

1. Keep your child hydrated: Offer plenty of fluids such as water, juices, and soups to prevent dehydration, especially if they have a fever.

2. Use over-the-counter remedies: Calamine lotion can help soothe the itchiness and relieve discomfort. Oral antihistamines can also help reduce itching and aid in better sleep.

3. Trim your child’s fingernails: Short nails can help prevent scratching and minimize the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Encourage your child to avoid scratching the blisters.

4. Dress your child in loose-fitting clothes: Loose, breathable clothing can help reduce irritation and allow the skin to breathe.

5. Provide a cool environment: Keep the room temperature moderate and use a fan or air conditioning to prevent excessive sweating, which can worsen itching.

6. Practice good hygiene: Regularly wash your child’s hands to prevent the spread of the virus. Use mild, fragrance-free soap for bathing.

7. Opt for soft foods: If your child has sores in their mouth, provide soft and easily chewable foods to avoid discomfort while eating.

8. Use lukewarm baths: Adding baking soda or oatmeal to lukewarm water can help relieve itching and promote healing of the blisters.

9. Administer prescribed medications: If your child’s doctor has prescribed any antiviral medications, make sure to give them as instructed to speed up recovery.

10. Keep your child away from others: Chickenpox is highly contagious, so it is important to keep your child away from school, daycare, and other public places until they are no longer contagious.

Follow the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.

Don’t:

1. Do not use aspirin: Aspirin can increase the risk of a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome in children with chickenpox. Avoid giving aspirin or any aspirin-containing products to your child.

2. Avoid scratching: Scratching the blisters can lead to skin infections and scarring. Teach your child to resist the urge to scratch or provide distractions to take their mind off the itchiness.

3. Do not use topical antibiotics without a doctor’s recommendation: Using topical antibiotics unnecessarily can increase bacterial resistance. Consult your child’s doctor before using any antibiotic ointments.

4. Avoid exposing your child to others at high risk: Chickenpox can cause severe complications in infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Keep your child away from such individuals until they are no longer contagious.

5. Do not use tight or synthetic clothing: Tight or synthetic clothing can cause irritation and increase discomfort for your child. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics.

6. Avoid hot baths or showers: Hot water can worsen itching and increase the risk of bacterial infections. Stick to lukewarm water baths for your child.

7. Do not ignore warning signs: If your child develops high fever, difficulty breathing, severe headache, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. These signs could indicate a complication related to chickenpox.

8. Avoid self-medication: Do not give your child any over-the-counter medications without consulting a healthcare professional. Some medications may not be safe for children or may have adverse interactions.

9. Do not scratch the blisters: It is essential to emphasize to your child the importance of not scratching the blisters. Scratching can cause scarring and increase the risk of secondary infections.

10. Do not let your child share personal belongings: To prevent the spread of chickenpox, discourage your child from sharing personal belongings such as clothes, towels, toys, and utensils with others.