Infectious Diseases
Chickenpox
Thankfully, chickenpox is no longer common. If it happens to you, come to us for care that can reduce discomfort and protect you against complications.
Medically reviewed by Dean Blumberg, M.D. on Aug. 18, 2023.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. A vaccine has reduced cases by 97% in the U.S. If you get it, there is a chance for complications, so timely care is essential.
At UC Davis Health, there are many ways to quickly access assessments and treatment. Many of our primary care providers have same- and next-day appointments for chickenpox symptoms. You may also be able to connect with our providers from home using telehealth express care.
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Chickenpox Symptoms
Varicella infection starts as a rash and then turns into fluid-filled blisters. The blisters are itchy and eventually scab over before going away on their own.
Other Common Chickenpox Symptoms
Symptoms of varicella may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Stomachache
- Unusual tiredness (fatigue)
Causes and Risk Factors of Chickenpox?
Exposure to the varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox. This may happen if someone with the virus passes it to you through body contact or bodily fluids, like a sneeze.
If you get chickenpox, you may face a higher risk of complications if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant. Potential chickenpox-related issues include:
- Bacterial infections
- Pneumonia
- Sepsis
- Hemorrhage (excess bleeding)
Diagnosing Chickenpox
We often diagnose chickenpox after detecting signs of it on your skin. You undergo a comprehensive evaluation, during which we discuss where you may have come in contact with the virus. Our experts are also careful to rule out conditions with similar symptoms, like sexually transmitted infections (STIs), hand, foot, and mouth disease, or insect bites.
Chickenpox Treatments
Care often includes home remedies to relieve discomfort. We may recommend additional treatments if you face a higher risk of complications.
Home Remedies
Applying calamine to your skin can reduce itching. You may also get relief bathing in water containing raw oats or baking soda.
Antiviral Medications
These prescription drugs may be helpful if you have chickenpox and face a higher risk of complications. Antivirals fight the varicella-zoster virus and work best when you take them shortly after receiving a varicella infection diagnosis.
Professional Guidance
We provide personalized recommendations that help you detect complications. We also teach you what to do if you experience them. Immediate care may be necessary if you have difficulty breathing, chickenpox sores leaking pus or signs of infection, like a fever.
Preventing Chickenpox
The best way to prevent chickenpox is by getting the varicella vaccine. Receiving two shots as a young child offers lifetime immunity. You may also be eligible to receive these shots as an adult. Talk to your provider about your options.
"Chickenpox Now Rare In U.S. Due To Routine Vaccination," Infectious Diseases Society of America, https://www.idsociety.org/news--publications-new/articles/2022/chickenpox-now-rare-in-u.s.-due-to-routine-vaccination
How common did chickenpox used to be?
4MCases per year before the varicella vaccine was available
How common is chickenpox now?
<150KCases per year
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Chickenpox Vaccine Saves Lives and Prevents Serious Illness Infographic
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