Chickenpox guidelines for children with low resistance to infection (1285)

Key points below


For children with low resistance to infection

What is chickenpox? 

Chickenpox is a contagious disease.  This means it can be passed from person to person.  Some children have a low resistance to chickenpox.  Their bodies aren't able to fight off germs.  This may be due to medicine they are taking or an illness they have.

How is it spread?

Chickenpox can be spread to others even before your child gets a rash.  If your child sits by, plays with, or lives with someone who has chickenpox, they may also get it.  It is contagious for 24 to 48 hours before you see the first spot on your child’s skin. 

What are the symptoms?

Important information

For more information:  See the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:  Chickenpox - Fact Sheet for parents.  Go to: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/varicella/fs-parents.html 

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has a low resistance to infections and:

  • Was sitting, playing or living with someone who had the chickenpox rash.
  • Was near someone 24 to 48 hours before breaking out in a rash.
  • Breaks out in the chickenpox rash.
  • Has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.