Chicken Pox (Varicella Zoster)
Frequently asked questions
A: Chickenpox is transmitted by direct contact with infected droplets, such as saliva or mucus from coughing, sneezing or talking. It also spreads through contact with fluid from chickenpox blisters. The virus can be passed by touching contaminated surfaces, such as through sharing utensils and personal items.
A: The chickenpox illness lasts about 5 – 10 days. However the contagious period starts a few days before the blisters/rash appears and until all they have dried up (about a week after they appear).
A: Chickenpox is contagious a few days before the rash appears and until all the blisters or rashes have dried up (about a week after they appear).
Chickenpox is most contagious on the day before the rash appears.
A: Chickenpox can be prevented by avoiding contact with anyone who has the illness. If your child is sick with chickenpox, keep them home. Chickenpox spreads easily though direct contact or via infected droplets from an infected person who coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by direct contact with contaminated objects or the fluid from chickenpox blisters.
A: The chickenpox vaccine typically provides lifelong immunity.
A: If your child has a skin problem like eczema, seek the advice of your doctor on which creams you can use on your child’s rash.
Children with severe infections may need to be treated with anti-viral medications prescribed by your doctor.
Children with underlying serious medical conditions which cause them to be immunocompromised may also need anti-viral medications urgently upon known exposed to chickenpox. Do see your doctor early after any possible exposure.
A: Chickenpox is highly contagious and can spread very quickly through respiratory droplets (saliva and mucus) that are transmitted while talking or breathing. After 10 – 21 days of exposure to the virus, symptoms will start to show.
This page has been reviewed by our medical content reviewers.
RELATED ARTICLES
View all
Understanding and Improving Your Child’s Gut Health
A healthy gut is essential for your child’s overall well-being and development. Here’s what parents should know about nurturing good gut health from an early age.
Keeping Your Child Safe from Mpox: A Parent’s Guide
As the mpox situation evolves globally, Dr Alison Snodgrass shares how mpox affects children and what parents can do to keep them safe.
Understanding and Managing Fussy Eating in Children
Discover how to differentiate between typical fussy eating and more serious issues, effective strategies for managing mealtimes, and when to seek help.
Welcoming Premature Babies: What Parents Need to Know
Premature birth brings significant challenges, including health risks and developmental concerns. Dr Alison explains what to expect when welcoming a premature baby.
A Practical Guide To Parenting When You're Sick
Learn useful tips to protect your child's health and prevent the transmission of illnesses from caregivers, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your little ones.
How to Help My Child Lose Weight Safely?
A practical guide for parents looking to support their child’s weight management journey while fostering a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Need help?
For enquiries, please call
+65 6575 7575
For appointment bookings, please WhatsApp
+65 8111 9777
