Chickenpox (Varicella) - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
A highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, producing fever followed by an intensely itchy rash that evolves through red spots, fluid-filled blisters and crusts, appearing in successive crops over several days. Most children recover fully; adults, pregnant women and immunosuppressed people are at higher risk of complications.
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Quick Answer
Chickenpox is a varicella-zoster virus infection causing fever then crops of intensely itchy spots that become blisters and crust over. It is contagious from two days before the rash until every lesion has crusted, usually about five days. Treatment is supportive — paracetamol, antihistamines, cool baths. Adults, pregnant women, newborns and immunosuppressed people should seek medical advice about antiviral treatment.
Symptoms
- Fever, headache and malaise 1–2 days before the rash
- Red spots that become fluid-filled blisters, then crusts
- Lesions in different stages at the same time
- Intense itch
- Rash on trunk and face first, spreading outwards; can involve mouth and scalp
Causes & Risk Factors
- Varicella-zoster virus
- Airborne spread and direct contact with blister fluid
- Incubation period of 10–21 days
- Lack of previous infection or vaccination
Treatment & Management
- Paracetamol for fever — avoid ibuprofen, which is linked to skin complications
- Oral antihistamines and calamine or cooling gels for itch
- Cool baths and loose cotton clothing
- Aciclovir for adults, immunosuppressed patients and severe cases
- Keeping nails short to reduce scarring and secondary infection
When to See a Doctor
Seek urgent care for breathlessness, severe headache, drowsiness, a spreading painful red area (bacterial infection), dehydration, or chickenpox in a newborn, pregnant woman or immunosuppressed person.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is chickenpox contagious?
From about two days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over — typically five to seven days in total. Children should stay away from school until crusting is complete.
Can you get chickenpox twice?
Second episodes are rare. However, the virus stays dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate decades later as shingles.
Related Conditions
Medical References
Information on this page is sourced from and verified against reputable medical resources:
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.