CINXE.COM
Chickenpox in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
<!DOCTYPE html><html lang="en"><head><meta charSet="utf-8"/><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1, shrink-to-fit=no" class="jsx-587005910"/><meta http-equiv="content-security-policy" content="default-src 'self'; script-src 'self' 'unsafe-eval' 'unsafe-inline' https:; connect-src 'self' 'unsafe-inline' https:; frame-src 'self' https:; style-src 'self' 'unsafe-inline' 'unsafe-eval' https:; img-src 'self' https: blob: data:; font-src 'self' https:; object-src 'none'; base-uri 'self'; form-action 'self'; block-all-mixed-content; upgrade-insecure-requests; frame-ancestors 'self' https://app.contentful.com;" class="jsx-587005910"/><link rel="canonical" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children"/><title>Chickenpox in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment</title><meta name="description" content="Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Written by a GP."/><meta property="og:title" content="Chickenpox in children"/><meta property="og:url" content="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children"/><meta property="og:locale" content="en_GB"/><meta property="og:image" content="https://patient.info/images/logo_patient.png"/><meta property="og:type" content="website"/><meta property="og:description" content="Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Written by a GP."/><meta property="fb:pages" content="310041829007343"/><meta property="p:domain_verify" content="03105afe891064ab36bab9260198eb12"/><meta name="twitter:description" content="Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Written by a GP."/><meta name="twitter:image" content="https://patient.info/images/logo_patient.png"/><meta name="twitter:site" content="@patient"/><script type="application/ld+json">{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"MedicalWebPage","@id":"https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children","name":"Chickenpox in children","description":"Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Written by a GP.","url":"https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children","about":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"MedicalCondition","name":"Chickenpox in children","associatedAnatomy":{"@type":"AnatomicalStructure","name":"Immune system"},"possibleTreatment":{"@type":"MedicalTherapy","name":"Ease discomfort"},"signOrSymptom":{"@type":"MedicalSignOrSymptom","name":"Small blisters"}},"dateCreated":null,"dateModified":"2023-03-16T00:00:00.000Z","datePublished":null,"breadcrumb":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"","name":"Chickenpox in children"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"item":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://patient.info/childrens-health","name":"Children's health"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"item":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://patient.info/health","name":"Health topics"}}],"itemListOrder":"ItemListOrderAscending","numberOfItems":3},"lastReviewed":"2023-03-16T00:00:00.000Z","editor":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"Person","name":"Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP","url":"https://patient.info/authors/dr-colin-tidy","image":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/au_img_de71309f-192f-4ea0-9e73-d6183fbe1bda/6d11ee3fe28ea6a0287170740bafc34f/users-Colin.jpg","jobTitle":"General Practitioner, Medical Author","sameAs":[],"worksFor":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Patient.info"},"memberOf":{"@type":"MedicalOrganization","name":"Patient.info"}},"reviewedBy":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"Person","name":"Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP ","url":"https://patient.info/authors/dr-hayley-willacy","image":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/au_img_9ae78124-a78f-4c03-b7b9-2a4f553aa0aa/355ee644cf70356c662cc9175e6132c2/users-Hayley.png","jobTitle":"General Practitioner, Medical Author","sameAs":["http://www.rcgp.org.uk/rcgp-near-you/faculties/north-west-england-region/cumbria-faculty.aspx","http://sites.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/cbme/index.aspx","http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/lms/"],"worksFor":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Patient.info"},"memberOf":{"@type":"MedicalOrganization","name":"Patient.info"}},"video":[{"@type":"VideoObject","name":"What is chickenpox?","description":"Dr Sarah Jarvis Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Full recovery is usual in children aged under 12 years. Serious complications are rare but are more likely to occur in children with a poor immune system, such as those on chemotherapy.","duration":"","contentUrl":"https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/6wiWtYbwhlg","thumbnailUrl":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/5mBWVyf4KauzzOZwZl3vhK/762e959675ddef0bc47b28852a41dbbb/What_is_chickenpox.jpg","uploadDate":"2018-09-03T00:00:00.000Z"}],"image":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/img_9707/a091809abce9819e3b7fe36c814ad134/72d65446-de65-411f-96d8-3a1e5698051c.jpg","thumbnail":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://patient.info/_next/image?url=https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/img_9707/a091809abce9819e3b7fe36c814ad134/72d65446-de65-411f-96d8-3a1e5698051c.jpg&w=384&q=75"}}</script><meta name="next-head-count" content="18"/><meta http-equiv="X-UA-Compatible" content="IE=edge,chrome=1"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="512x512" href="https://patient.info/favicon-512x512.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="192x192" href="https://patient.info/favicon-192x192.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="144x144" href="https://patient.info/favicon-144x144.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="128x128" href="https://patient.info/favicon-128x128.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="96x96" href="https://patient.info/favicon-96x96.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="48x48" href="https://patient.info/favicon-48x48.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="32x32" href="https://patient.info/favicon-32x32.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="16x16" href="https://patient.info/favicon-16x16.png"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/7108afb8b1381ad1-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/9e82d62334b205f4-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/4c285fdca692ea22-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/eafabf029ad39a43-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/8888a3826f4a3af4-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/0484562807a97172-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/b957ea75a84b6ea7-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/7db6c35d839a711c-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/media/6245472ced48d3be-s.p.woff2" as="font" type="font/woff2" crossorigin="anonymous" data-next-font="size-adjust"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/css/ec162eedc6cf4667.css" as="style"/><link rel="stylesheet" href="/_next/static/css/ec162eedc6cf4667.css" data-n-g=""/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/css/38c5c23ecc39d596.css" as="style"/><link rel="stylesheet" href="/_next/static/css/38c5c23ecc39d596.css" data-n-p=""/><noscript data-n-css=""></noscript><script defer="" nomodule="" src="/_next/static/chunks/polyfills-42372ed130431b0a.js"></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/webpack-6ef43a8d4a395f49.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/framework-45f5bb75ba05514c.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/main-9426929d70634432.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/pages/_app-50cffeb6f068b9ab.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/659-d4428b262f994e52.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/226-a370717b9ef7ccf3.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/pages/%5Blevel1%5D/%5B...level2%5D-a440c16b2348ba7b.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/C4Ju4xBM4oHPTPJruIAXB/_buildManifest.js" defer=""></script><script src="/_next/static/C4Ju4xBM4oHPTPJruIAXB/_ssgManifest.js" defer=""></script><style id="__jsx-587005910">:root{--poppins-font:'__Poppins_2dbf9b', '__Poppins_Fallback_2dbf9b'}</style></head><body><div id="__next"><div data-globaltargeting="{"DocId":"doc_4215","Type":"PatientInformationLeaflet"}" id="globaltarget" class="jsx-587005910"><div id="top"></div><a href="/" class="SkipToContent_skip-to-content__wdqqv" data-testid="skip-to-content-link">Skip to main content</a><header class="Header_header__8NL8f Header_header-pages__QDaP2 " id="header"><div class="Branding_branding__M0YPb"><div class="Container_container__FTpm3"><div class="Branding_branding-wrapper__ehwb8"><a class="Branding_branding-logo--lg__5CSoH" href="https://patient.info/" aria-label="Patient 3.0" data-testid="patient_icon"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="26" width="125" viewBox="0 0 125 26" fill="none"><path d="M62.1569 10.9094C61.0034 9.68614 59.3886 8.99806 57.7123 8.98277C54.0213 9.13568 51.1454 12.2244 51.2838 15.8941C51.1454 19.5639 54.0213 22.6526 57.7123 22.8055C59.404 22.7902 61.0034 22.1021 62.1569 20.8789V22.2703C62.1569 22.4538 62.2953 22.5914 62.4798 22.6067H64.7406C64.9251 22.6067 65.0635 22.4691 65.0789 22.2856V22.2703V9.48736C65.0789 9.30388 64.9405 9.16626 64.7559 9.15097H62.4952C62.3107 9.15097 62.1722 9.28859 62.1569 9.47207V9.48736V10.9094ZM58.2967 20.0073C56.0821 19.9309 54.3596 18.0807 54.4365 15.8941C54.3289 13.7687 55.9744 11.9644 58.1121 11.8727C60.2498 11.7657 62.0646 13.4018 62.1569 15.5272C62.1569 15.6495 62.1569 15.7718 62.1569 15.8941C62.2338 18.096 60.5113 19.9309 58.2967 20.0073Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M79.5507 22.7906H81.7961C81.9806 22.7906 82.119 22.653 82.1344 22.4695V22.4542V9.68655C82.1344 9.50306 81.996 9.36545 81.8114 9.35016H79.5507C79.3661 9.35016 79.2277 9.48777 79.2123 9.67126V9.68655V22.4542C79.197 22.6377 79.3354 22.7906 79.5199 22.7906H79.5507Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M73.3528 19.9607C72.4761 19.9607 71.9225 19.4561 71.9225 17.9576V11.7802H75.5828C75.7673 11.7802 75.9057 11.6426 75.9211 11.4591V11.4438V9.48662C75.9211 9.30313 75.7827 9.16552 75.5981 9.15022H71.9071V5.9239C71.9071 5.74042 71.7687 5.58751 71.5841 5.58751C71.5688 5.58751 71.538 5.58751 71.5226 5.58751L69.2773 5.93919C69.1081 5.96977 69.0004 6.10739 69.0004 6.27559V9.15022H67.6163C67.4317 9.15022 67.2933 9.28784 67.278 9.47133V9.48662V11.4438C67.278 11.6273 67.4164 11.7649 67.6009 11.7802H69.0158V17.9576C69.0158 20.5876 69.5233 22.8048 72.876 22.8048C73.891 22.8048 74.8907 22.5754 75.7981 22.132C75.9365 22.0555 76.0134 21.8873 75.9672 21.7344L75.3674 19.7466C75.3213 19.5784 75.1368 19.4714 74.9676 19.5173C74.9368 19.5173 74.9214 19.5326 74.8907 19.5479C74.3986 19.7619 73.8757 19.8995 73.3528 19.9607Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M123.104 19.7466C123.058 19.5784 122.874 19.4714 122.704 19.5326C122.674 19.5326 122.658 19.5479 122.643 19.5631C122.166 19.8231 121.643 19.976 121.105 20.0066C120.228 20.0066 119.675 19.502 119.675 18.0035V11.7802H123.335C123.52 11.7802 123.658 11.6426 123.673 11.4591V11.4438V9.48662C123.673 9.30313 123.535 9.16552 123.35 9.15022H119.659V5.9239C119.659 5.74042 119.521 5.58751 119.336 5.58751C119.321 5.58751 119.29 5.58751 119.275 5.58751L117.03 5.93919C116.86 5.96977 116.753 6.10739 116.753 6.27559V9.15022H115.369C115.184 9.15022 115.046 9.28784 115.03 9.47133V9.48662V11.4438C115.03 11.6273 115.169 11.7649 115.353 11.7802H116.768V17.9576C116.768 20.5876 117.276 22.8048 120.628 22.8048C121.643 22.8048 122.643 22.5754 123.566 22.1473C123.704 22.0708 123.781 21.9026 123.735 21.7497L123.104 19.7466Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M107.956 9.21338C106.141 9.19809 104.403 9.94733 103.173 11.2776V9.70268C103.173 9.51919 103.035 9.38158 102.85 9.36629H100.589C100.405 9.36629 100.266 9.5039 100.251 9.68739V9.70268V22.4704C100.251 22.6538 100.389 22.7915 100.574 22.8067H102.835C103.019 22.8067 103.158 22.6691 103.173 22.4856V22.4704V17.0422C103.173 13.4183 104.849 11.9198 106.818 11.9198C109.094 11.9198 109.678 14.0146 109.678 15.1767V22.4704C109.678 22.6538 109.817 22.7915 110.001 22.8067H112.431C112.616 22.8067 112.754 22.6691 112.77 22.4856V22.4704V14.1523C112.77 11.8434 111.37 9.21338 107.956 9.21338Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M80.7656 7.5145C81.8952 7.5145 82.811 6.604 82.811 5.48084C82.811 4.35769 81.8952 3.44719 80.7656 3.44719C79.6359 3.44719 78.7202 4.35769 78.7202 5.48084C78.7202 6.604 79.6359 7.5145 80.7656 7.5145Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M44.4706 3.57108H37.1193C36.9348 3.57108 36.7964 3.70869 36.781 3.89218V3.90747V22.4703C36.781 22.6538 36.9194 22.7914 37.104 22.8067H39.6723C39.8568 22.8067 39.9953 22.6691 40.0106 22.4856V22.4703V16.1247H43.9785C47.8386 16.1247 50.4531 13.4947 50.4531 9.5803C50.5146 6.32339 47.9155 3.63224 44.6398 3.57108H44.4706ZM43.8401 13.1889H39.9491V6.46101H43.8401C45.6394 6.32339 47.2235 7.68426 47.3465 9.47326C47.3465 9.5803 47.3619 9.67204 47.3465 9.76378C47.2389 11.6445 45.7163 13.1277 43.8247 13.1889H43.8401Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M97.575 16.4912H87.3478C87.2094 16.4912 87.1017 16.5983 87.1017 16.7512C87.1017 16.7665 87.1017 16.7817 87.1017 16.797C87.4709 19.0753 89.2087 20.4209 91.0696 20.4209C92.4998 20.4209 93.9455 20.0234 94.8836 18.2955C94.9298 18.2038 95.0528 18.1426 95.1604 18.1732L97.1597 18.6013C97.2982 18.6319 97.3904 18.7695 97.3597 18.9071C97.3597 18.9224 97.3443 18.9377 97.3443 18.953C96.2062 21.5371 93.9147 22.8215 91.0696 22.8215C87.4555 22.8215 84.3027 20.0539 84.3027 15.8796C84.3027 11.6747 87.4401 8.8765 91.1772 8.8765C94.7452 8.8765 97.6826 11.5829 97.8211 15.5585V16.2619C97.8211 16.3842 97.7134 16.4912 97.575 16.4912ZM87.4709 14.5187H94.6376C94.776 14.5187 94.8836 14.4117 94.8836 14.2588C94.8836 14.2435 94.8836 14.2129 94.8682 14.1976C94.3607 12.2557 92.8997 11.2924 91.1619 11.2924C89.5163 11.2924 87.7323 12.271 87.194 14.1976C87.1633 14.3352 87.2402 14.4729 87.3786 14.5034C87.4247 14.5187 87.4401 14.5187 87.4709 14.5187Z" fill="#32325D"></path><path d="M26.504 2.71497C23.2006 -0.582478 17.8172 -0.597743 14.4984 2.6997C17.7713 5.98188 17.756 11.3097 14.4832 14.5919C14.1467 14.9277 13.7185 15.0957 13.4585 15.462C12.342 17.0344 13.4432 18.0115 14.7584 19.3549L17.2819 21.9501C17.9854 22.637 18.1078 23.095 18.3678 22.866L26.5193 14.7293C29.8381 11.4166 29.8533 6.04295 26.504 2.71497C26.5193 2.71497 26.5193 2.71497 26.504 2.71497Z" fill="url(#paint0_linear_698_8295)"></path><path d="M14.5289 2.63854C11.1949 -0.689436 5.81151 -0.674171 2.49277 2.6538C-0.825966 5.98178 -0.810672 11.3707 2.50807 14.6834L6.51502 10.6837L6.49973 10.6684C5.39858 9.56927 5.39858 7.75263 6.49973 6.65348C7.60088 5.55433 9.42083 5.55433 10.522 6.65348L10.5373 6.66875L14.4525 2.77593C14.4831 2.7454 14.5289 2.6996 14.5595 2.66907L14.5289 2.63854Z" fill="url(#paint1_linear_698_8295)"></path><path d="M13.5041 17.783C12.9383 17.1876 12.9536 16.2411 13.5347 15.6763C13.5653 15.6458 13.5806 15.6305 13.6112 15.6152C14.1159 15.1725 14.6053 14.6535 15.0182 14.1344C17.7099 10.9133 17.664 6.22668 14.9112 3.05136C14.7888 2.91396 14.6512 2.77657 14.5441 2.66971L10.5371 6.65412C11.6383 7.75327 11.6383 9.56992 10.5371 10.6691C9.436 11.7682 7.61604 11.7682 6.51489 10.6691L2.50793 14.684L13.1218 25.2633C13.9018 26.0419 15.1711 26.0419 15.9511 25.2633L18.4746 22.7444" fill="#32325D"></path><defs><linearGradient id="paint0_linear_698_8295" x1="14.8776" y1="11.1803" x2="34.0154" y2="12.0095" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"><stop offset="0.000941506" stop-color="#D3368A"></stop><stop offset="0.285" stop-color="#DD4C7E"></stop><stop offset="0.6795" stop-color="#EA5C7B"></stop><stop offset="1" stop-color="#FF7575"></stop></linearGradient><linearGradient id="paint1_linear_698_8295" x1="0.0680138" y1="7.02505" x2="14.1575" y2="8.01054" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"><stop stop-color="#038EF5"></stop><stop offset="0.168" stop-color="#038EF5"></stop><stop offset="0.377" stop-color="#4570FC"></stop><stop offset="1" stop-color="#4869FD"></stop></linearGradient></defs></svg></a><a class="Branding_branding-logo--sm__VaKnB" href="https://patient.info/" aria-label="Patient 3.0" data-testid="patient_icon"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="26" width="29" viewBox="0 0 29 26" fill="none"><g clip-path="url(#clip0_2414_20610)"><path d="M26.504 2.71498C23.2006 -0.582462 17.8172 -0.597728 14.4984 2.69972C17.7713 5.9819 17.756 11.3097 14.4832 14.5919C14.1467 14.9277 13.7185 15.0957 13.4585 15.4621C12.342 17.0344 13.4432 18.0115 14.7584 19.3549L17.2819 21.9501C17.9854 22.6371 18.1078 23.095 18.3678 22.866L26.5193 14.7293C29.8381 11.4166 29.8533 6.04296 26.504 2.71498C26.5193 2.71498 26.5193 2.71498 26.504 2.71498Z" fill="url(#paint0_linear_2414_20610)"></path><path d="M14.5289 2.63857C11.1949 -0.689406 5.81151 -0.67414 2.49277 2.65383C-0.825966 5.98181 -0.810672 11.3707 2.50807 14.6834L6.51502 10.6837L6.49973 10.6685C5.39858 9.56931 5.39858 7.75266 6.49973 6.65351C7.60088 5.55436 9.42083 5.55436 10.522 6.65351L10.5373 6.66878L14.4525 2.77596C14.4831 2.74543 14.5289 2.69963 14.5595 2.6691L14.5289 2.63857Z" fill="url(#paint1_linear_2414_20610)"></path><path d="M13.5041 17.783C12.9383 17.1876 12.9536 16.2411 13.5347 15.6763C13.5653 15.6457 13.5806 15.6305 13.6112 15.6152C14.1159 15.1725 14.6053 14.6535 15.0182 14.1344C17.7099 10.9133 17.664 6.22664 14.9112 3.05133C14.7888 2.91393 14.6512 2.77654 14.5441 2.66968L10.5371 6.65409C11.6383 7.75324 11.6383 9.56989 10.5371 10.669C9.436 11.7682 7.61604 11.7682 6.51489 10.669L2.50793 14.684L13.1218 25.2633C13.9018 26.0419 15.1711 26.0419 15.9511 25.2633L18.4746 22.7444" fill="#32325D"></path></g><defs><linearGradient id="paint0_linear_2414_20610" x1="14.8776" y1="11.1803" x2="34.0154" y2="12.0095" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"><stop offset="0.000941506" stop-color="#D3368A"></stop><stop offset="0.285" stop-color="#DD4C7E"></stop><stop offset="0.6795" stop-color="#EA5C7B"></stop><stop offset="1" stop-color="#FF7575"></stop></linearGradient><linearGradient id="paint1_linear_2414_20610" x1="0.0680138" y1="7.02508" x2="14.1575" y2="8.01057" gradientUnits="userSpaceOnUse"><stop stop-color="#038EF5"></stop><stop offset="0.168" stop-color="#038EF5"></stop><stop offset="0.377" stop-color="#4570FC"></stop><stop offset="1" stop-color="#4869FD"></stop></linearGradient><clipPath id="clip0_2414_20610"><rect width="29" height="26" fill="white"></rect></clipPath></defs></svg></a><div class="Branding_branding-list__xYigx"><button type="button" aria-label="search" aria-controls="search" aria-expanded="false" class="Branding_button__cbbaX Branding_custom-button__SRiub " data-testid="search"><span>Search</span><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M23.6 21.6999L17.7 15.9999C21.2 12.0999 20.9 6.29988 17.1 2.79988C13.3 -0.700117 7.39995 -0.900117 3.39995 2.39988C-0.600049 5.79988 -1.10005 11.5999 2.09995 15.5999C5.29995 19.5999 11.3 20.5999 15.7 17.6999L21.7999 23.5999C22.2999 24.0999 23.1 24.0999 23.6 23.5999C24.1 23.0999 24.1 22.2999 23.6 21.6999ZM10.1 16.7999C5.99995 16.7999 2.69995 13.5999 2.69995 9.69988C2.69995 5.79988 5.99995 2.59988 10.1 2.59988C14.2 2.59988 17.5 5.79988 17.5 9.69988C17.5 13.5999 14.2 16.7999 10.1 16.7999Z"></path></svg></button><button type="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-label="menu icon" data-testid="menu_icon" class="Branding_button__cbbaX Branding_button-hide__3rZd7 Branding_button-inactive__LQYwX"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M155-218q-22 0-37.5-15.5T102-271q0-22 15.5-37.5T155-324h652q22 0 37.5 15.5T860-271q0 22-15.5 37.5T807-218H155Zm0-210q-22 0-37.5-15.5T102-481q0-22 15.5-37.5T155-534h652q22 0 37.5 15.5T860-481q0 22-15.5 37.5T807-428H155Zm0-208q-22 0-37.5-15.5T102-689q0-22 15.5-37.5T155-742h652q22 0 37.5 15.5T860-689q0 22-15.5 37.5T807-636H155Z"></path></svg></button></div></div></div></div></header><div class="Navigation_navigation__PT51z Navigation_navigation--lg__9jnxP Navigation_navigation-menu-close__CTy9F " id="navigation" role="navigation"><div class="Navigation_secondary-data__pi544"><ul class="Navigation_navigation-list--lg__zzV0v Navigation_navigation-list--lg-noads__zVqiX " id="nav-list"><li class="Navigation_navigation-item--lg__ky8Ou"><a href="https://patient.info/" class="Navigation_navigation-item--home__y_kam " data-testid="pri_home"><span>Home</span></a></li><li class="Navigation_navigation-item--lg__ky8Ou"><a href="https://patient.info/gp-practice-services" class="Navigation_navigation-item--gp-services___RsXW " data-testid="pri_gp_practice_services"><span>GP practice services</span></a></li><li class="Navigation_navigation-item--lg__ky8Ou"><a href="https://patient.info/health" class="Navigation_navigation-item--health-advice___KUTU " data-testid="pri_health_advice"><span>Health advice</span></a></li><li class="Navigation_navigation-item--lg__ky8Ou"><a href="https://patient.info/clinical-research" class="Navigation_navigation-item--health-research__vVLw_ " data-testid="pri_health_research"><span>Health research</span></a></li><li class="Navigation_navigation-item--lg__ky8Ou"><a href="https://patient.info/doctor" class="Navigation_navigation-item--professional-hub__qRQxv " data-testid="pri_professional_hub"><span>Medical professionals</span></a></li></ul><div class="Navigation_secondary-hide__u3Uds"><ul class="Navigation_secondary-content__zxie5"><li><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar__svZYs SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-navigation-item--home__A40BM SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar-hide__A4W4s"></div><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary__cbbXD SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-inactive__dSi2Y"></div></li><li><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar__svZYs SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-navigation-item--gp-services__LZoBc SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar-hide__A4W4s"></div><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary__cbbXD SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-inactive__dSi2Y"></div></li><li><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar__svZYs SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-navigation-item--health-advice__lRjZ3 SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar-hide__A4W4s"></div><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary__cbbXD SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-inactive__dSi2Y"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_health_topics"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--health-advice__IBQM_ SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M360 856h240q17 0 28.5-11.5T640 816q0-17-11.5-28.5T600 776H360q-17 0-28.5 11.5T320 816q0 17 11.5 28.5T360 856Zm0-120h240q17 0 28.5-11.5T640 696q0-17-11.5-28.5T600 656H360q-17 0-28.5 11.5T320 696q0 17 11.5 28.5T360 736Zm120-408q-12-15-31.5-23.5T408 296q-36 0-62 26t-26 62q0 53 49 100.5t84 79.5q11 11 27 11t27-11q35-32 84-79.5T640 384q0-36-26-62t-62-26q-21 0-40.5 8.5T480 328Zm240 648H240q-33 0-56.5-23.5T160 896V256q0-33 23.5-56.5T240 176h480q33 0 56.5 23.5T800 256v640q0 33-23.5 56.5T720 976Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Health topics</h2><p>Advice and clinical information on a wide variety of healthcare topics.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">All health topics</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/news-and-features" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Latest features</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>All health topics</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/allergies-blood-immune" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Allergies, blood & immune system</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Bones, joints and muscles</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/brain-nerves" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Brain and nerves</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/cancer" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Cancer</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/chest-lungs" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Chest and lungs</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/childrens-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Children's health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/cosmetic-surgery" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Cosmetic surgery</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/diabetes" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Diabetes</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/digestive-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Digestive health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/ear-nose-throat" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Ear, nose and throat</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/eye-care" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Eye health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/foot-care" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Foot care</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/general-health-and-lifestyle" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>General health & lifestyle</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/heart-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Heart health and blood vessels</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/hormones" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Hormones</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/infections" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Infections</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/kidney-urinary-tract" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Kidney & urinary tract</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/mens-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Men's health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/mental-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Mental health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/oral-dental-care" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Oral and dental care</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/pregnancy" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Pregnancy</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/senior-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Senior health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/sexual-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Sexual health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/signs-symptoms" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Signs and symptoms</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Skin, nail and hair health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/travel-and-vaccinations" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Travel and vaccinations</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/treatment-medication" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Treatment and medication</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/womens-health" data-testid="ter_healthtopics_tertiarymenu"><p>Women's health</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_healthy_living"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--health-advice__IBQM_ SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M520 930q2 19-12.5 32.5T475 973q-174-26-276-134.5T83 543q-2-20 11.5-33.5T128 499q183 25 282 141t110 290Zm-71-715q12-17 31.5-16.5T512 216q45 63 78.5 138T631 480q-39 18-87 58.5T481 601q-14-22-64.5-64.5T331 480q8-50 40.5-126.5T449 215Zm386 284q19-2 32 10.5t12 32.5q-8 161-87.5 261.5T599 944q-2-61-18.5-138.5T529 672q43-66 127.5-114T835 499Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Healthy living</h2><p>Expert insight and opinion on nutrition, physical and mental health.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Healthy living</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/news-and-features" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Latest features</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/cold-and-flu-season" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Cold and flu season</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#exerciseandphysicalactivity" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Exercise and physical activity</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#healthyeating" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Healthy eating</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#healthyrelationships" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Healthy relationships</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#managingharmfulhabits" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Managing harmful habits</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#mentalwellbeing" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Mental wellbeing</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/healthy-living#relaxationandsleep" data-testid="ter_healthyliving_tertiarymenu"><p>Relaxation and sleep</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_managing_conditions"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--health-advice__IBQM_ SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M218 952 104 838q-23-23-23-56t23-56l526-526q23-23 56-23t56 23l114 114q23 23 23 56t-23 56L330 952q-23 23-56 23t-56-23Zm290-122 226-226 122 122q23 23 23 56t-23 56L742 952q-23 23-56 23t-56-23L508 830Zm-28-134q17 0 28.5-11.5T520 656q0-17-11.5-28.5T480 616q-17 0-28.5 11.5T440 656q0 17 11.5 28.5T480 696Zm-80-80q17 0 28.5-11.5T440 576q0-17-11.5-28.5T400 536q-17 0-28.5 11.5T360 576q0 17 11.5 28.5T400 616Zm160 0q17 0 28.5-11.5T600 576q0-17-11.5-28.5T560 536q-17 0-28.5 11.5T520 576q0 17 11.5 28.5T560 616Zm-335-69L104 426q-23-23-23-56t23-56l114-114q23-23 56-23t56 23l122 122-227 225Zm255-11q17 0 28.5-11.5T520 496q0-17-11.5-28.5T480 456q-17 0-28.5 11.5T440 496q0 17 11.5 28.5T480 536Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Managing conditions</h2><p>From ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure, to steroids for eczema, find out what options are available, how they work and the possible side effects.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Featured conditions</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/childrens-health/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>ADHD in children</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/chest-lungs/asthma-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Asthma</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Chickenpox</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/chest-lungs/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>COPD</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/digestive-health/inflammatory-bowel-disease/crohns-disease" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Crohn's disease</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/diabetes/diabetes-mellitus-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Diabetes</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/womens-health/pelvic-pain-in-women/endometriosis" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Endometriosis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/signs-symptoms/tiredness-fatigue/fibromyalgia" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Fibromyalgia</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/digestive-health/diarrhoea/gastroenteritis" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Gastroenteritis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/hives-inducible-urticaria" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Hives</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/digestive-health/irritable-bowel-syndrome-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Irritable bowel syndrome</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/womens-health/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Polycystic ovary syndrome</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/psoriasis-leaflet" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Psoriasis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/scarlet-fever" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Scarlet fever</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/infections/strep-a-group-a-strep-gas" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Strep A</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/ears-nose-throat-mouth/sore-throat-2/tonsillitis" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Tonsillitis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/sexual-health/vaginal-discharge-female-discharge/vaginal-thrush-yeast-infection" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Vaginal thrush</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/signs-symptoms/dizziness/vertigo" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Vertigo</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/managing-conditions" data-testid="ter_managingconditions_tertiarymenu"><p>Health conditions A-Z</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_medicine_information"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--health-advice__IBQM_ SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M136-266q-32 0-46.5-21T86-337l109-304q8-22 30.5-37.5T272-694q23 0 45 15.5t30 37.5l112 306q11 29-3.5 49T410-266q-14 0-25.5-8.5T368-296l-24-68H200l-20 66q-4 13-17 22.5t-27 9.5Zm94-188h80l-34-132h-8l-38 132Zm379 188q-28 0-47.5-19.5T542-333q0-13 6.5-30t14.5-27l181-210H597q-20 0-33.5-13.5T550-647q0-20 13.5-33.5T597-694h194q28 0 47.5 19.5T858-626q0 13-6.5 29.5T837-570L658-360h155q20 0 33.5 13.5T860-313q0 20-13.5 33.5T813-266H609ZM411-760q-17 0-24-16t5-28l72-72q3-3 18-7 3 0 18 7l72 72q12 12 5 28t-24 16H411Zm71 683q-3 0-18-7l-72-72q-12-12-5-28t24-16h142q17 0 24 16t-5 28l-72 72q-3 3-18 7Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Medicine information</h2><p>Information and fact sheets for patients and professionals. Find out side effects, medicine names, dosages and uses.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Medicine information</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/medicine" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>All medicines A-Z</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/allergy-medicines" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Allergy medicines</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/analgesics-and-pain-medication" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Analgesics and pain medication</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/anti-inflammatory-medicines" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Anti-inflammatory medicines</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/breathing-treatment-and-respiratory-care" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Breathing treatment and respiratory care</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/cancer-treatment-and-drugs" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Cancer treatment and drugs</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/contraceptive-medicines" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Contraceptive medicines</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/diabetes-medicines" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Diabetes medicines</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/ent-and-mouth-care" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>ENT and mouth care</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/eye-care-medicine" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Eye care medicine</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/gastrointestinal-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Gastrointestinal treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/genito-urinary-medicine" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Genitourinary medicine</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/heart-disease-treatment-and-prevention" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Heart disease treatment and prevention</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/hormonal-imbalance-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Hormonal imbalance treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/hormone-deficiency-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Hormone deficiency treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/immunosuppressive-drugs" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Immunosuppressive drugs</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/infection-treatment-medicine" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Infection treatment medicine</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/treatment-for-kidneys" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Kidney conditions treatments</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/muscle-bone-and-joint-pain-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Muscle, bone and joint pain treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/nausea-medicine-and-vomiting-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Nausea medicine and vomiting treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/nervous-system-drugs" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Nervous system drugs</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/fertility-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Reproductive health</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/treatments-for-skin-conditions" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Skin conditions treatments</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/substance-abuse-treatment" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Substance abuse treatment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/vaccines-and-immunisation" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Vaccines and immunisation</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/vitamin-and-mineral-supplements" data-testid="ter_medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"><p>Vitamin and mineral supplements</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_tests_investigations"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--health-advice__IBQM_ SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="25" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 25"><path d="M19 22.9932C18.45 22.9932 17.979 22.7975 17.587 22.4062C17.1957 22.0142 17 21.5432 17 20.9932V19.8932C15.85 19.6598 14.8957 19.0892 14.137 18.1812C13.379 17.2725 13 16.2098 13 14.9932V9.99316C13 9.44316 13.1917 8.97216 13.575 8.58016C13.9583 8.18883 14.4333 7.99316 15 7.99316H21C21.55 7.99316 22.021 8.18883 22.413 8.58016C22.8043 8.97216 23 9.44316 23 9.99316V14.9932C23 16.2098 22.621 17.2725 21.863 18.1812C21.1043 19.0892 20.15 19.6598 19 19.8932V20.9932H21C21.2833 20.9932 21.5207 21.0892 21.712 21.2812C21.904 21.4725 22 21.7098 22 21.9932C22 22.2765 21.904 22.5138 21.712 22.7052C21.5207 22.8972 21.2833 22.9932 21 22.9932H19ZM19.75 13.9932H21V9.99316H15V11.9932H15.75C16.3 11.9932 16.8207 12.1182 17.312 12.3682C17.804 12.6182 18.2167 12.9598 18.55 13.3932C18.6833 13.5932 18.8583 13.7432 19.075 13.8432C19.2917 13.9432 19.5167 13.9932 19.75 13.9932ZM6 17.9932H5C4.45 17.9932 3.979 17.7975 3.587 17.4062C3.19567 17.0142 3 16.5432 3 15.9932V8.49316C2.71667 8.49316 2.47933 8.3975 2.288 8.20616C2.096 8.01416 2 7.7765 2 7.49316C2 7.20983 2.096 6.97216 2.288 6.78016C2.47933 6.58883 2.71667 6.49316 3 6.49316H6V4.99316H5.5C5.21667 4.99316 4.979 4.89716 4.787 4.70516C4.59567 4.51383 4.5 4.2765 4.5 3.99316C4.5 3.70983 4.59567 3.47216 4.787 3.28016C4.979 3.08883 5.21667 2.99316 5.5 2.99316H8.5C8.78333 2.99316 9.021 3.08883 9.213 3.28016C9.40433 3.47216 9.5 3.70983 9.5 3.99316C9.5 4.2765 9.40433 4.51383 9.213 4.70516C9.021 4.89716 8.78333 4.99316 8.5 4.99316H8V6.49316H11C11.2833 6.49316 11.521 6.58883 11.713 6.78016C11.9043 6.97216 12 7.20983 12 7.49316C12 7.7765 11.9043 8.01416 11.713 8.20616C11.521 8.3975 11.2833 8.49316 11 8.49316V15.9932C11 16.5432 10.8043 17.0142 10.413 17.4062C10.021 17.7975 9.55 17.9932 9 17.9932H8V22.4932C8 22.6932 7.90833 22.8432 7.725 22.9432C7.54167 23.0432 7.36667 23.0265 7.2 22.8932L6.4 22.2932C6.26667 22.1932 6.16667 22.0765 6.1 21.9432C6.03333 21.8098 6 21.6598 6 21.4932V17.9932ZM5 15.9932H9V14.4932H7.25C7.05 14.4932 6.875 14.4182 6.725 14.2682C6.575 14.1182 6.5 13.9432 6.5 13.7432C6.5 13.5432 6.575 13.3682 6.725 13.2182C6.875 13.0682 7.05 12.9932 7.25 12.9932H9V11.4932H7.25C7.05 11.4932 6.875 11.4182 6.725 11.2682C6.575 11.1182 6.5 10.9432 6.5 10.7432C6.5 10.5432 6.575 10.3682 6.725 10.2182C6.875 10.0682 7.05 9.99316 7.25 9.99316H9V8.49316H5V15.9932Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Tests & investigations</h2><p>Information and guidance about tests and an easy, fast and accurate symptom checker.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Tests & investigations</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/about-tests-and-investigations" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>About tests & investigations</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/symptom-checker" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>Symptom checker</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/treatment-medication/blood-tests" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>Blood tests</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/bmi-calculator" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>BMI calculator</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/pregnancy-due-date-calculator" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>Pregnancy due date calculator</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/signs-symptoms" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>General signs and symptoms</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/patient-health-questionnaire-phq-9" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>Patient health questionnaire</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/generalised-anxiety-disorder-assessment-gad-7" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"><p>Generalised anxiety disorder assessment</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div></div></li><li><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar__svZYs SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-navigation-item--health-research__Y0SVM SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar-hide__A4W4s"></div><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary__cbbXD SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-inactive__dSi2Y"></div></li><li><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar__svZYs SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-navigation-item--professional-hub__nczDM SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-sidebar-hide__A4W4s"></div><div role="navigation" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary__cbbXD SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-inactive__dSi2Y"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_hub"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--professional-hub__TLTw0 SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M440 696v80q0 17 11.5 28.5T480 816q17 0 28.5-11.5T520 776v-80h80q17 0 28.5-11.5T640 656q0-17-11.5-28.5T600 616h-80v-80q0-17-11.5-28.5T480 496q-17 0-28.5 11.5T440 536v80h-80q-17 0-28.5 11.5T320 656q0 17 11.5 28.5T360 696h80ZM160 976q-33 0-56.5-23.5T80 896V416q0-33 23.5-56.5T160 336h160v-80q0-33 23.5-56.5T400 176h160q33 0 56.5 23.5T640 256v80h160q33 0 56.5 23.5T880 416v480q0 33-23.5 56.5T800 976H160Zm240-640h160v-80H400v80Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Medical professional hub</h2><p>Information and tools written by clinicians for medical professionals, and training resources provided by FourteenFish.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Medical professional hub</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor" data-testid="ter_medicalprofessionalhub_tertiarymenu"><p>Content for medical professionals</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://www.fourteenfish.com/" data-testid="ter_medicalprofessionalhub_tertiarymenu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><p>FourteenFish training</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_professional_articles"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--professional-hub__TLTw0 SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M17,16c-.8,0-1.5-.3-2.1-.9s-.9-1.3-.9-2.1,.3-1.5,.9-2.1,1.3-.9,2.1-.9,1.5,.3,2.1,.9,.9,1.3,.9,2.1-.3,1.5-.9,2.1-1.3,.9-2.1,.9Zm-8,4.1v.9H5c-.6,0-1-.2-1.4-.6-.4-.4-.6-.9-.6-1.4V5c0-.6,.2-1,.6-1.4s.8-.6,1.4-.6h14c.5,0,1,.2,1.4,.6,.4,.4,.6,.8,.6,1.4v5c-.5-.6-1.1-1.1-1.8-1.5s-1.3-.5-2.2-.5c0-.3-.1-.5-.3-.7s-.4-.3-.7-.3H8c-.3,0-.5,.1-.7,.3s-.3,.4-.3,.7,.1,.5,.3,.7c.2,.2,.4,.3,.7,.3h6l-.9,.9c-.3,.3-.5,.7-.7,1.1h-4.4c-.3,0-.5,.1-.7,.3s-.3,.4-.3,.7,.1,.5,.3,.7,.4,.3,.7,.3h4c0,.4,0,.7,.1,1s.2,.7,.3,1h-4.4c-.3,0-.5,.1-.7,.3s-.3,.4-.3,.7,.1,.5,.3,.7,.4,.3,.7,.3h2.4c-.4,.4-.8,.8-1.1,1.4-.2,.5-.3,1.1-.3,1.7Zm3,2.9c-.3,0-.5-.1-.7-.3s-.3-.4-.3-.7v-1.9c0-.4,.1-.7,.2-1s.4-.6,.7-.7c.5-.3,1-.5,1.4-.7s.9-.2,1.5-.3h.6c.2,0,.4,.1,.5,.3l1.1,1.3,1.1-1.3c.1-.2,.3-.3,.5-.3h.6c.6,.1,1.1,.2,1.5,.3,.4,.1,.8,.3,1.4,.7,.3,.2,.5,.4,.7,.7,.2,.3,.3,.6,.3,1v1.9c0,.3-.1,.5-.3,.7s-.5,.3-.8,.3H12Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Professional articles</h2><p>Evidence-based professional reference pages authored by our clinical team for the use of medical professionals.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Professional articles</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/articles" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>View all professional articles A-Z</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/actinic-keratosis-pro" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Actinic keratosis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/bronchiolitis-pro" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Bronchiolitis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/depression-pro" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Depression</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/molluscum-contagiosum-pro" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Molluscum contagiosum</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/obesity-in-adults" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Obesity in adults</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/osmolality-osmolarity-and-fluid-homeostasis" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Osmolality, osmolarity, and fluid homeostasis</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/recurrent-abdominal-pain-in-children-pro" data-testid="ter_professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"><p>Recurrent abdominal pain in children</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-content__X6m4s"><a href="https://patient.info" class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list__67206" data-testid="sec_medicaltools_resources"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-menu__Chqv2"><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon__4jDqd SecondaryNavigationDesktop_navigation-item--professional-hub__TLTw0 SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-icon--inactive__FLGa2 "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M540 976q-108 0-184-76t-76-184v-23q-86-14-143-80.5T80 456V256q0-17 11.5-28.5T120 216h80q0-17 11.5-28.5T240 176q17 0 28.5 11.5T280 216v80q0 17-11.5 28.5T240 336q-17 0-28.5-11.5T200 296h-40v160q0 66 47 113t113 47q66 0 113-47t47-113V296h-40q0 17-11.5 28.5T400 336q-17 0-28.5-11.5T360 296v-80q0-17 11.5-28.5T400 176q17 0 28.5 11.5T440 216h80q17 0 28.5 11.5T560 256v200q0 90-57 156.5T360 693v23q0 75 52.5 127.5T540 896q75 0 127.5-52.5T720 716v-67q-35-13-57.5-43.5T640 536q0-50 35-85t85-35q50 0 85 35t35 85q0 39-22.5 69.5T800 649v67q0 108-76 184t-184 76Z"></path></svg></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item__YWsVF SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-item--active__ADoJv"><h2>Medical tools and resources</h2><p>Clinical tools for medical professional use.</p></div></div><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_secondary-list-navicon__Phe1K "><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></div></a><div class="SecondaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-inactive__uNEtz"><ul><li class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-content__JmUfL"><h6 class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-title__j9zHz">Medical tools and resources</h6><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/medical-calculators" data-testid="ter_medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"><p>All medical tools and resources</p></a></div><div class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-section__NpW9N"><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://www.isabelhealthcare.com/" data-testid="ter_testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><p>Isabel DDx Companion professional symptom checker</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/bmi-calculator" data-testid="ter_medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"><p>BMI calculator</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/generalised-anxiety-disorder-assessment-gad-7" data-testid="ter_medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"><p>Generalised anxiety disorder assessment</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/patient-health-questionnaire-phq-9" data-testid="ter_medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"><p>Patient health questionnaire</p></a><a class="TertiaryNavigationDesktop_tertiary-menu__AI1gf" href="https://patient.info/doctor/pregnancy-due-date-calculator" data-testid="ter_medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"><p>Pregnancy due date calculator</p></a></div></li></ul></div></div></div></li></ul></div></div></div><main class="Main_main__R2DH5" id="content" data-testid="main"><div class="Header_patient-bg__1nSx2" data-testid="header"><div class="Outer_outer__BTURZ" data-testid="main-outer"><div class="Header_patient__hwEEr"><div class="Inner_inner__R1rvV Inner_block__s6wZg" data-testid="main-inner"><div class=" Breadcrumbs_breadcrumbs__gSaCL Header_header-breadcrumbs__akeiP " data-testid="breadcrumbs"><ul class="Breadcrumbs_patient__5hldf" data-testid="breadcrumbs-list"><li data-testid="breadcrumbs-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/health" data-testid="breadcrumbs-list-link">Health topics</a><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></li><li data-testid="breadcrumbs-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/childrens-health" data-testid="breadcrumbs-list-link">Children's health</a><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg></li><li data-testid="breadcrumbs-list-item">Chickenpox in children</li></ul></div></div><div class="Inner_inner__R1rvV Inner_block__s6wZg" data-testid="main-inner"><h1 data-testid="title" id="hero-title">Chickenpox in children</h1><div class="Header_by-line-wrapper__MQqgS"><p><span>Peer reviewed by <a href="https://patient.info/authors/dr-hayley-willacy" data-testid="authored-by-link">Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP </a></span><span>Last updated by <a href="https://patient.info/authors/dr-colin-tidy" data-testid="authored-by-link">Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP</a></span><span data-testid="date-last-updated">Last updated <!-- -->16 Mar 2023</span></p><p><span data-testid="meets-guidelines"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="m424 648-86-86q-11-11-28-11t-28 11q-11 11-11 28t11 28l114 114q12 12 28 12t28-12l226-226q11-11 11-28t-11-28q-11-11-28-11t-28 11L424 648Zm56 328q-83 0-156-31.5T197 859q-54-54-85.5-127T80 576q0-83 31.5-156T197 293q54-54 127-85.5T480 176q83 0 156 31.5T763 293q54 54 85.5 127T880 576q0 83-31.5 156T763 859q-54 54-127 85.5T480 976Z"></path></svg>Meets Patient鈥檚<!-- --> <a href="https://patient.info/editorial-policy" aria-label="Link to Editorial Policy">editorial guidelines</a></span></p></div><div class="ActionBar_wrapper__D3gJV" data-testid="action-bar-wrapper"><ul class="ActionBar_list__mr085" data-testid="action-bar-list"><li class="ActionBar_item__ioHPb" data-testid="action-bar-download"><div class="ActionButton_wrapper__90xz1" data-testid="ui-action-button-wrapper"><button class=" ActionButton_button__Cme_0 ActionButton_patient__v6cAT " type="button" aria-label="Download" data-testid="ui-action-button-btn"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M481-335q-10 0-19.45-3.409T444-350L278-516q-16-16-15.5-37.5T279-591q16-16 37.5-16t37.5 16l74 75v-268q0-22 15.5-37.5T481-837q22 0 37.5 15.5T534-784v268l75-75q16-16 37.5-16t37.5 16q16 16 16 37.5T684-516L518-350q-8.1 8.182-17.55 11.591Q491-335 481-335ZM236-129q-43.725 0-74.863-31.137Q130-191.275 130-235v-69q0-22 15.5-37.5T183-357q22 0 37.5 15.5T236-304v69h488v-69q0-22 15.5-37.5T777-357q22 0 37.5 15.5T830-304v69q0 43.725-31.138 74.863Q767.725-129 724-129H236Z"></path></svg></button><span class="ActionButton_tooltip__ro3G5" data-testid="ui-action-button-tooltip">Download</span></div><a tabindex="-1" class="ActionBar_hidden__IvsYg" href="https://patient.info/pdf/doc_4215_55.pdf" download="Patient - Chickenpox in children.pdf">Download</a><div class=" Snackbar_wrapper__H_KJn Snackbar_bottom__GGD4i " data-testid="ui-snackbar-wrapper"><div class="Snackbar_content__q4Tu8" data-testid="ui-snackbar-content">Article PDF has been downloaded</div><button tabindex="-1" class="Snackbar_close__ZfdXe" type="button" aria-label="Close" data-testid="ui-snackbar-close"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M482-406 291-215q-16 16-38 16t-38-16q-16-16-16-37.5t16-37.5l192-192-193-192q-16-16-16-37t16-37q16-16 37.5-16t37.5 16l191 190 189-189q16-16 38-16t38 16q16 16 16 38.5T745-670L555-479l191 191q15 15 15 37t-15 37q-15 15-36.5 15T673-214L482-406Z"></path></svg></button></div></li><li class="ActionBar_item__ioHPb" data-testid="action-bar-share"><div class="ActionButton_wrapper__90xz1" data-testid="ui-action-button-wrapper"><button class=" ActionButton_button__Cme_0 ActionButton_patient__v6cAT " type="button" aria-label="Share" data-testid="ui-action-button-btn"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M720 976q-50 0-85-35t-35-85q0-7 1-14.5t3-13.5L322 664q-17 15-38 23.5t-44 8.5q-50 0-85-35t-35-85q0-50 35-85t85-35q23 0 44 8.5t38 23.5l282-164q-2-6-3-13.5t-1-14.5q0-50 35-85t85-35q50 0 85 35t35 85q0 50-35 85t-85 35q-23 0-44-8.5T638 384L356 548q2 6 3 13.5t1 14.5q0 7-1 14.5t-3 13.5l282 164q17-15 38-23.5t44-8.5q50 0 85 35t35 85q0 50-35 85t-85 35Zm0-640q17 0 28.5-11.5T760 296q0-17-11.5-28.5T720 256q-17 0-28.5 11.5T680 296q0 17 11.5 28.5T720 336ZM240 616q17 0 28.5-11.5T280 576q0-17-11.5-28.5T240 536q-17 0-28.5 11.5T200 576q0 17 11.5 28.5T240 616Zm480 280q17 0 28.5-11.5T760 856q0-17-11.5-28.5T720 816q-17 0-28.5 11.5T680 856q0 17 11.5 28.5T720 896Zm0-600ZM240 576Zm480 280Z"></path></svg></button><span class="ActionButton_tooltip__ro3G5" data-testid="ui-action-button-tooltip">Share</span></div><div class="ActionBar_share__oLWnK " data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-wrapper"><h4 data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-heading">Share</h4><button tabindex="-1" class="ActionBar_close__A1h__" type="button" aria-label="Close" data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-close"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M482-406 291-215q-16 16-38 16t-38-16q-16-16-16-37.5t16-37.5l192-192-193-192q-16-16-16-37t16-37q16-16 37.5-16t37.5 16l191 190 189-189q16-16 38-16t38 16q16 16 16 38.5T745-670L555-479l191 191q15 15 15 37t-15 37q-15 15-36.5 15T673-214L482-406Z"></path></svg></button><ul data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-list"><li data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-item"><a tabindex="-1" href="mailto:?subject=Patient - Chickenpox in children&body=https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children" class="ActionBar_link__Vbi7E" data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-link-email"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M160 896q-33 0-56.5-23.5T80 816V336q0-33 23.5-56.5T160 256h640q33 0 56.5 23.5T880 336v480q0 33-23.5 56.5T800 896H160Zm320-287q5 0 10.5-1.5T501 603l283-177q8-5 12-12.5t4-16.5q0-20-17-30t-35 1L480 536 212 368q-18-11-35-.5T160 397q0 10 4 17.5t12 11.5l283 177q5 3 10.5 4.5T480 609Z"></path></svg><span>Share via email</span></a></li><li data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-item"><a tabindex="-1" href="#copy" class="ActionBar_link__Vbi7E" data-testid="action-bar-share-dialog-link-copy"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M360-240q-33 0-56.5-23.5T280-320v-480q0-33 23.5-56.5T360-880h360q33 0 56.5 23.5T800-800v480q0 33-23.5 56.5T720-240H360ZM200-80q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120-160v-520q0-17 11.5-28.5T160-720q17 0 28.5 11.5T200-680v520h400q17 0 28.5 11.5T640-120q0 17-11.5 28.5T600-80H200Z"></path></svg><span>Copy link</span></a></li></ul></div><div class=" Snackbar_wrapper__H_KJn Snackbar_bottom__GGD4i " data-testid="ui-snackbar-wrapper"><div class="Snackbar_content__q4Tu8" data-testid="ui-snackbar-content">Article link copied to clipboard</div><button tabindex="-1" class="Snackbar_close__ZfdXe" type="button" aria-label="Close" data-testid="ui-snackbar-close"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M482-406 291-215q-16 16-38 16t-38-16q-16-16-16-37.5t16-37.5l192-192-193-192q-16-16-16-37t16-37q16-16 37.5-16t37.5 16l191 190 189-189q16-16 38-16t38 16q16 16 16 38.5T745-670L555-479l191 191q15 15 15 37t-15 37q-15 15-36.5 15T673-214L482-406Z"></path></svg></button></div></li></ul></div></div></div></div></div><div class="Outer_outer__BTURZ" data-testid="main-outer"><div class="Inner_inner__R1rvV Inner_flex__1OFoE" data-testid="main-inner"><div class="Primary_primary__eOPvg Primary_primary-block___Cp_G" data-testid="main-primary"><div class="Series_wrapper__oi1dd"><p data-testid="series-parent"><span data-testid="series-label">In this series:</span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="Viral rashes">Viral rashes</a></span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/measles" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="Measles">Measles</a></span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-adults-and-teenagers" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="Chickenpox in adults and teenagers">Chickenpox in adults and teenagers</a></span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/scarlet-fever" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="Scarlet fever">Scarlet fever</a></span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="Hand, foot and mouth disease">Hand, foot and mouth disease</a></span><span><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/school-exclusion-for-infections" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-small__NpzUc " data-testid="School exclusion for infections">School exclusion for infections</a></span></p></div><div class="Introduction_wrapper__3lEFI " data-testid="introduction"><div class=" Markup_markup__hjGOW " data-testid="markup"><p>Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Full recovery is usual in children aged under 12 years. Serious complications are rare but are more likely to occur in children with a poor immune system, such as those on chemotherapy.</p></div></div><div class="InThisArticle_wrapper__PysyZ" data-testid="in-this-article-wrapper"><div class="InThisArticle_title__NDDRL" data-testid="in-this-article-title"><h3>In this article<!-- -->:</h3></div><div class="InThisArticle_content__niE0Z" data-testid="in-this-article-content"><ul data-testid="in-this-article-list" role="navigation"><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#what-is-chickenpox" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>What is chickenpox?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#chickenpox-symptoms" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Chickenpox symptoms</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#what-are-the-possible-complications" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>What are the possible complications?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#what-is-the-treatment-for-chickenpox-in-children" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>What is the treatment for chickenpox in children?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#dealing-with-a-fever" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Dealing with a fever</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#for-special-at-risk-groups" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>For special at-risk groups</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#is-chickenpox-infectious" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Is chickenpox infectious?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#protecting-others" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Protecting others</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#is-there-a-vaccine-against-chickenpox" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Is there a vaccine against chickenpox?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#should-i-let-my-child-catch-chickenpox" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Should I let my child catch chickenpox?</span></a></li><li data-testid="in-this-article-list-item"><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children#can-i-go-to-work-if-my-child-has-chickenpox" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-quicklink__LWSK_ Link_link-patient__KOvww InThisArticle_link__yAqS0" data-testid="in-this-article-list-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M5.67318 20.289L13.8612 12L5.67318 3.711C5.63754 3.678 5.60289 3.643 5.57022 3.605C5.2168 3.223 5 2.709 5 2.144C5 0.959999 5.95136 0 7.12448 0C7.68975 0 8.20553 0.224001 8.58469 0.589001C8.61241 0.615001 8.63815 0.641999 8.66389 0.667999L18.3349 10.436C18.3607 10.462 18.3864 10.488 18.4112 10.515C18.9002 11.034 19.122 11.79 18.9329 12.536C18.8388 12.905 18.6547 13.228 18.4112 13.486C18.3983 13.499 18.3518 13.547 18.3399 13.558L8.66389 23.332C8.63815 23.358 8.61241 23.385 8.58469 23.411C8.20553 23.776 7.68975 24 7.12448 24C5.95136 24 5 23.04 5 21.855C5 21.291 5.2168 20.777 5.57022 20.394C5.60289 20.357 5.63754 20.322 5.67318 20.289"></path></svg><span>Can I go to work if my child has chickenpox?</span></a></li></ul></div></div><div class="Body_wrapper__87Ugw" data-testid="body"><div class=" Markup_markup__hjGOW Body_markup__5QVEm " data-testid="markup"><div class="InlineAds_inlineads__KhwOX" data-index="1" id="inlinead"><p class="InlineAds_adslinebreak__o_d8f"><span>Continue reading below</span><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M480-362q-8 0-15-2.5t-13-8.5L268-557q-11-11-11-28t11-28q11-11 28-11t28 11l156 156 156-156q11-11 28-11t28 11q11 11 11 28t-11 28L508-373q-6 6-13 8.5t-15 2.5Z"></path></svg></p><div class="InlineAds_adswrapper__q54f_"><div class="InlineAds_wrapper__D6jdy" aria-label="Side rail Advertisement" role="complementary" data-testid="inlineads-wrapper"><div id="div-gpt-ad-1698311650922-0" data-adunit="Side Rail-App" data-dimensions="300,250" data-targeting="{}" class="InlineAds_wrapper-active__1EvdQ" data-testid-adspossibledimensions="300,250"></div></div></div></div><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="what-is-chickenpox" data-testid="heading-2">What is chickenpox?</h2><div class="WrapperVideo_wrapper__CWQkr" data-testid="wrapper-video"><div class="WrapperVideo_title__0UpzE" data-testid="wrapper-video-title"><h2>What is chickenpox?</h2></div><div class="WrapperVideo_video__xpt7I" data-testid="wrapper-video-video"></div><div class="WrapperVideo_author__QcwYo" data-testid="wrapper-video-author"><a href="https://patient.info/authors/dr-sarah-jarvis-mbe" data-testid="wrapper-video-author-link">Dr<!-- --> <!-- -->Sarah<!-- --> <!-- -->Jarvis MBE, FRCGP</a></div></div><p>Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most children have chickenpox at some stage. Most commonly, children get chickenpox before the age of 10 years. The immune system makes proteins called <a href="https://patient.info/allergies-blood-immune/antibody-and-antigen-tests" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">antibodies</a> during the infection. These fight the virus and then provide lifelong protection against it (immunity). Therefore, it is uncommon to have more than one bout of chickenpox in your lifetime.</p><div class="WrapperImage_wrapper-default__j1ckY WrapperImage_wrapper__YaO_D" data-testid="wrapper-image"><div class="WrapperImage_title__mkALp" data-testid="wrapper-image-title"><h2>Severe chickenpox</h2></div><div class="WrapperImage_image__1H47v" data-testid="wrapper-image-image"><img alt="Severe chickenpox" loading="lazy" width="360" height="480" decoding="async" data-nimg="1" style="color:transparent" sizes="(max-width: 575px) 40vw, (max-width: 991px) 70vw, 100vw" srcSet="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=256&q=75 256w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=384&q=75 384w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=640&q=75 640w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=750&q=75 750w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=828&q=75 828w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=1080&q=75 1080w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=1200&q=75 1200w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=1600&q=75 1600w" src="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9376%2F84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4%2F6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg&w=1600&q=75"/></div></div><p><b>By Gzzz, </b><a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" data-testid="wrapper-link"><b>CC BY-SA 4.0</b></a><b>, via Wikimedia Commons</b></p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="chickenpox-symptoms" data-testid="heading-2">Chickenpox symptoms</h2><ul><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/childrens-health/fever-in-children-high-temperature" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link"><b>High temperature (fever), aches and headache</b></a> often start a day or so before a rash appears.</p></li><li><p><b>Spots (rash)</b>. Spots appear in crops. They develop into small blisters and are itchy. They can be anywhere on the body. Several crops may develop over several days. Some children may be covered in spots; others have only a few or even none. The rash starts off looking like red spots, which then blister, and then scab over.</p></li><li><p><b>Loss of appetite or feeding problems</b>.</p></li></ul><div class="WrapperImage_wrapper-default__j1ckY WrapperImage_wrapper__YaO_D" data-testid="wrapper-image"><div class="WrapperImage_title__mkALp" data-testid="wrapper-image-title"><h2>Chickenpox in a child</h2></div><div class="WrapperImage_image__1H47v" data-testid="wrapper-image-image"><img alt="Chickenpox in a child" loading="lazy" width="256" height="171" decoding="async" data-nimg="1" style="color:transparent" sizes="(max-width: 575px) 40vw, (max-width: 991px) 70vw, 100vw" srcSet="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=256&q=75 256w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=384&q=75 384w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=640&q=75 640w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=750&q=75 750w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=828&q=75 828w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=1080&q=75 1080w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=1200&q=75 1200w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=1600&q=75 1600w" src="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2Fimg_9377%2Fc16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8%2Fad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg&w=1600&q=75"/></div></div><p><b>脴yvind Holmstad, </b><a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" data-testid="wrapper-link"><b>CC BY-SA 4.0</b></a><b>, via Wikimedia Commons</b></p><p>Some children feel quite unwell for a few days. Others appear only mildly ill. Most are much better within a week. The blisters dry up and scab. They gradually fade but may take up to two weeks to go completely.</p><div class="InlineAds_inlineads__KhwOX" data-index="2" id="inlinead"><p class="InlineAds_adslinebreak__o_d8f"><span>Continue reading below</span><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M480-362q-8 0-15-2.5t-13-8.5L268-557q-11-11-11-28t11-28q11-11 28-11t28 11l156 156 156-156q11-11 28-11t28 11q11 11 11 28t-11 28L508-373q-6 6-13 8.5t-15 2.5Z"></path></svg></p><div class="InlineAds_adswrapper__q54f_"><div class="InlineAds_wrapper__D6jdy" aria-label="Side rail Advertisement" role="complementary" data-testid="inlineads-wrapper"><div id="div-gpt-ad-1698311751337-0" data-adunit="Side Rail-App" data-dimensions="300,250" data-targeting="{}" class="InlineAds_wrapper-active__1EvdQ" data-testid-adspossibledimensions="300,250"></div></div></div></div><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="what-are-the-possible-complications" data-testid="heading-2">What are the possible complications?</h2><p>Most of the time, children with chickenpox recover fully and have no complications. Uncommonly, one or more of the following complications can occur.</p><ul><li><p>The spots do not usually scar unless they are badly scratched.</p></li><li><p>Some spots become infected with germs (bacteria) in some cases. This is the most common complication in children. If this occurs, the surrounding skin becomes red and sore. Antibiotics in the form of creams or medicine may then be needed.</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/chest-lungs/chest-infection/pneumonia" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Inflammation of the lung (pneumonia)</a> and <a href="https://patient.info/brain-nerves/encephalitis-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)</a> are rare complications.</p></li><li><p>Vary rarely, other serious complications develop. For example:<br/></p><ul><li><p>Reye's syndrome. (a very rare condition with brain and liver problems).</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/heart-health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)</a>.</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/kidney-urinary-tract/glomerulonephritis-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)</a>.</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/digestive-health/appendicitis-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Appendicitis</a>.</p></li><li><p>Ataxia (problems co-ordinating movements).</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/digestive-health/gallstones-and-bile/acute-pancreatitis" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)</a>.</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/allergies-blood-immune/henoch-schonlein-purpura-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Henoch-Sch枚nlein purpura</a> (a condition that can affect the kidneys).</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/mens-health/scrotal-lumps-pain-and-swelling/epididymo-orchitis" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Inflammation of the testes (orchitis)</a>.</p></li><li><p><a href="https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles/arthritis" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Inflammation of the joints (arthritis)</a>.</p></li><li><p>Inflammation of various parts of the eye.</p></li></ul></li></ul><p>Therefore, although serious complications are rare, it is best to be watchful. See a doctor if your child develops any worrying symptoms that you are unsure about such as:</p><ul><li><p>Breathing problems.</p></li><li><p>Weakness such as a child becoming wobbly on his/her feet.</p></li><li><p>Drowsiness.</p></li><li><p>Fits (convulsions).</p></li><li><p>Pains or headaches which become worse despite paracetamol.</p></li><li><p>Being unable to take fluids, due to a severe rash in the mouth.</p></li><li><p>A severe rash, or a rash which bruises or bleeds into the skin (haemorrhagic rash).</p></li><li><p>Becoming generally more and more unwell.</p></li></ul><h3>Shingles</h3><p><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/shingles-herpes-zoster-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Shingles</a> is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and is a very delayed complication of chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox in the past may develop shingles.</p><p>Shingles is an infection of a nerve and the area of skin supplied by the nerve. It causes a rash and pain in a local band-like area along the affected nerve. About 1 in 5 people have shingles at some time in their lives. It can occur at any age, but it is most common in people over the age of 50.</p><p>The reason why shingles may occur is because the virus does not completely go after you have chickenpox. Some virus particles remain inactive in the nerve roots next to your spinal cord. They do no harm there and cause no symptoms.</p><p>For reasons that are not clear, the virus may begin to multiply again (reactivate). This is often years later. The reactivated virus travels along the nerve to the skin to cause shingles. <a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/shingles-herpes-zoster-leaflet" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">See the separate leaflet called Shingles (Herpes Zoster) for details</a>.</p><p><b>Note</b>: you can catch chickenpox from being exposed to a person with shingles if you have not had chickenpox yourself. However, you cannot catch shingles from a person with chickenpox, or catch shingles from a person with shingles.</p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="what-is-the-treatment-for-chickenpox-in-children" data-testid="heading-2">What is the treatment for chickenpox in children?</h2><p>Treatment is mainly aimed at easing symptoms and trying to make your child as comfortable as possible whilst the immune system deals with the virus.</p><h3>A soothing cream (emollient)</h3><p>This may help the itch. Calamine lotion is the one most used, although it is not known how effective it is.</p><h3>A sedating antihistamine</h3><p>A tablet or liquid medicine may help with sleep if itch is a problem. This can be used in children over 1 year old. Give a dose at bedtime. You can buy these at pharmacies or get them on prescription. <a href="https://patient.info/medicine/chlorphenamine-for-allergies-allerief-hayleve-piriton" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">Chlorphenamine (Piriton庐)</a> is the one most used. It can also be helpful for itch during the daytime but may cause some sleepiness as a side-effect.</p><h3>Keep fingernails cut short</h3><p>Keeping your child's fingernails short will help to stop deep scratching.</p><h3>Dress children comfortably</h3><p>Use cool smooth fabrics such as cotton so they are not cold or overheated.</p><div class="InlineAds_inlineads__KhwOX" data-index="3" id="inlinead"><p class="InlineAds_adslinebreak__o_d8f"><span>Continue reading below</span><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 -960 960 960"><path d="M480-362q-8 0-15-2.5t-13-8.5L268-557q-11-11-11-28t11-28q11-11 28-11t28 11l156 156 156-156q11-11 28-11t28 11q11 11 11 28t-11 28L508-373q-6 6-13 8.5t-15 2.5Z"></path></svg></p><div class="InlineAds_adswrapper__q54f_"><div class="InlineAds_wrapper__D6jdy" aria-label="Side rail Advertisement" role="complementary" data-testid="inlineads-wrapper"><div id="div-gpt-ad-1698311686220-0" data-adunit="Side Rail-App" data-dimensions="300,250" data-targeting="{}" class="InlineAds_wrapper-active__1EvdQ" data-testid-adspossibledimensions="300,250"></div></div></div></div><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="dealing-with-a-fever" data-testid="heading-2">Dealing with a fever</h2><p>A fever commonly occurs with chickenpox, and may make your child feel uncomfortable and irritable. The following are things that you can do that may bring the temperature down and make your child feel more comfortable:</p><h3>You can give paracetamol</h3><p>This will help to lower a temperature. You can buy <a href="https://patient.info/medicine/paracetamol-calpol-disprol-panadol" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">paracetamol</a> in liquid form, or as melt-in-the-mouth tablets, for children. It comes in various brand names. The dose for each age is given with the medicine packet.<br/><br/>Paracetamol does not treat the cause of the fever. It merely helps to ease discomfort. It also eases headaches, and aches and pains. You do not need to use paracetamol if your child is comfortable and not distressed by the fever, aches or pains.</p><p>Ibuprofen has been used with paracetamol in the past. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended that ibuprofen no longer be used for chickenpox. This is because some studies suggested that there may be an association with more severe skin reactions if ibuprofen is used for chickenpox. While more evidence is awaited, the advice is to avoid ibuprofen in this situation.</p><h3>Take extra layers of clothes off your child</h3><p>If the room is normal room temperature. It is wrong to wrap up a feverish child. The aim is to prevent overheating or shivering.</p><h3>Give lots to drink</h3><p>This helps to prevent a lack of fluid in the body (dehydration). You might find that a child is more willing to have a good drink if they are not so irritable. So, if they are not keen to drink, it may help to give some paracetamol first. Then, try the child with drinks half an hour or so later when his/her temperature is likely to have come down.</p><h3>Other treatments</h3><p>Do not cold-sponge a child who has a fever. This used to be popular, but it is now not advised. This is because the blood vessels under the skin become narrower (constrict) if the water is too cold. This reduces heat loss and can trap heat in deeper parts of the body. The child may then get worse. Many children also find cold-sponging uncomfortable.</p><p>Some people use a fan to cool a child. Again, this may not be a good idea if the fanned air is too cold. However, a gentle flow of air in a room which is room temperature may be helpful. Perhaps just open the window or use a fan on the other side of the room to keep the air circulating.</p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="for-special-at-risk-groups" data-testid="heading-2">For special at-risk groups</h2><p>Some children have a higher risk of developing complications from chickenpox. In addition to the above treatments, they may need extra treatment such as <a href="https://patient.info/medicine/aciclovir-for-viral-infections-zovirax" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">aciclovir</a> (an antiviral medicine) or vaccination. If your child has not already had chickenpox and is in one in the following groups, you should see a doctor urgently if they have contact with chickenpox, or have symptoms of it:</p><ul><li><p>Children (babies) less than 1 month old.</p></li><li><p>Children with a poor immune system. For example, children with <a href="https://patient.info/cancer/leukaemia" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">leukaemia</a>, immune diseases or <a href="https://patient.info/sexual-health/hiv-and-aids" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">HIV/AIDS</a>.</p></li><li><p>Children taking certain medication such as steroids, immune-suppressing medication or chemotherapy.</p></li><li><p>Children with severe heart or lung disease.</p></li><li><p>Children with severe skin conditions.</p></li></ul><p>Antiviral medication is also used for adults and teenagers who develop chickenpox, as they too have a higher risk of complications. However, antiviral medication is not normally advised for healthy children aged over 1 month and under 12 years who develop chickenpox.</p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="is-chickenpox-infectious" data-testid="heading-2">Is chickenpox infectious?</h2><p>A person with chickenpox is very infectious. The virus spreads in the air from person to person. For example, if you have not already had chickenpox, you stand a good chance of catching it if:</p><ul><li><p>You are in the same room as someone with chickenpox for more than 15 minutes; <b>or</b></p></li><li><p>You have any face-to-face contact with someone with chickenpox, such as a conversation.</p></li></ul><p>Nine in ten people who have not had chickenpox would catch it after being exposed in this way.</p><p>It takes between 7 and 21 days (most commonly 10-14 days) to develop symptoms after catching the virus (the incubation period).</p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="protecting-others" data-testid="heading-2">Protecting others</h2><p>A person with chickenpox is infectious from two days before the spots first appear until they have all crusted over (commonly about five days after onset of the rash). A child with chickenpox should stay off school or nursery for five days from the onset of the rash and until all the lesions have crusted. Also, whilst infectious, they should keep away from at-risk people who may develop a severe illness if they get chickenpox. These include:</p><ul><li><p>Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox in the past. Chickenpox can be severe and cause complications during pregnancy. <a href="https://patient.info/pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/chickenpox-contact-in-pregnancy" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">See the separate leaflet called Chickenpox Contact in Pregnancy for more information</a>.</p></li><li><p>People with a poorly functioning immune system. For example, people with <a href="https://patient.info/cancer/leukaemia" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">leukaemia</a>, with <a href="https://patient.info/sexual-health/hiv-and-aids" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">HIV/AIDS</a>, on <a href="https://patient.info/treatment-medication/steroids/oral-steroids" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">steroid medication</a>, or who are having chemotherapy.</p></li><li><p>The at-risk children listed earlier.</p></li></ul><p>Healthy adults who have not had chickenpox may also want to avoid catching it, as the illness tends to be worse in adults.</p><p><b>Note</b>: people with chickenpox should not travel by air until all the spots have crusted over.</p><h3>Are you a healthcare worker?</h3><p>Healthcare workers come into contact with people with poor immune systems, pregnant women and newborn babies. They should be aware that if they catch chickenpox, they can be infectious for two days before a rash or illness appears, and be a risk to patients. So, if you are a healthcare worker and come into contact with someone who has chickenpox (or who develops it within the following two days), then:</p><ul><li><p>If you have been immunised against chickenpox, or have definitely had chickenpox in the past, you are likely to be immune. You should continue working but contact your occupational health department if you feel unwell or develop a rash.</p></li><li><p>If you are uncertain about whether you have had chickenpox or been immunised, you should have a test to see if you are immune. If you are not immune you should:<br/></p><ul><li><p>Avoid contact with high-risk patients for 8-21 days after the contact.</p></li><li><p>Report to occupational health before patient contact if you feel unwell or develop a high temperature (fever) or rash.</p></li><li><p>Get immunised against the chickenpox virus (the varicella-zoster virus).</p></li></ul></li></ul><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="is-there-a-vaccine-against-chickenpox" data-testid="heading-2">Is there a vaccine against chickenpox?</h2><p>Yes, there is a vaccine that protects against the virus that causes chickenpox. It is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme in certain countries such as the USA, Canada and Australia. Currently, there are no plans to make immunisation against chickenpox routine for<a href="https://patient.info/news-and-features/should-your-child-have-the-chickenpox-vaccine" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link"> children in the UK</a>.</p><p>In the UK, the vaccine is offered by the NHS to certain groups. For example, healthcare workers who are not immune to chickenpox. Also, to people who are not immune to chickenpox and who are in close contact with people with a poor immune system. For example, brothers and sisters of children on chemotherapy.</p><p>The chickenpox vaccine is available privately from many pharmacists for people aged 3-65 who are not pregnant, breastfeeding or trying for a baby. You will need a consultation with your pharmacist to check this vaccination is suitable for you or your child before it is given.</p><p><a href="https://patient.info/news-and-features/should-your-child-get-the-chickenpox-vaccine" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">See also the separate article Should your child have the chickenpox vaccine?</a></p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="should-i-let-my-child-catch-chickenpox" data-testid="heading-2">Should I let my child catch chickenpox?</h2><p>Some parents encourage their children to mix with others who have chickenpox in order to catch it.</p><h3>Pros</h3><ul><li><p>Chickenpox is usually a milder illness in a child than in an adult.</p></li><li><p>The risk of serious complications is higher in adults. In particular, chickenpox during pregnancy can cause serious complications to both mother and baby.</p></li><li><p>Most people get chickenpox at some stage. As the risks are fewer if you have it as a child, it may be better to get it over with.</p></li></ul><h3>Cons</h3><ul><li><p>"I could not willingly let my child develop an illness."</p></li><li><p>Although rare, some children do have serious complications.</p></li></ul><p>Different parents have different views on this issue. And remember, children who develop chickenpox spots (the rash) today will have been just as infectious over the previous two days when they were well, but were incubating the virus.</p><p><b>Also note</b>: if someone in the family or home is temporarily at high risk of complications (listed earlier - pregnant women, etc) then it is best to put off deliberately catching it.</p><h2 class="ScrollMargin_anchor__VQzBd" id="can-i-go-to-work-if-my-child-has-chickenpox" data-testid="heading-2">Can I go to work if my child has chickenpox?</h2><p>If your child has chickenpox, you may need to stay at home to look after them until they can go back to school or nursery (when all the spots have formed a scab, which is usually five days after the spots first appear).<br/><br/>If you're healthy and have had chickenpox, you are otherwise fine to go to work and carry on normally, even if your child has chickenpox, but you should stick to good hygiene such as washing your hands frequently.<br/><br/>If you haven't had chickenpox or can't be certain that you have, you should assume that you will catch it from your child and so stay at home until all your spots have formed a scab. But remember it takes between 7 and 21 days (most commonly 10-14 days) to develop symptoms after catching the virus. It is particularly important to stay away from people who are at greater risk of complications if they catch the chickenpox virus (see special at-risk groups above).</p><p><a href="https://patient.info/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-adults-and-teenagers" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww " data-testid="wrapper-link">See also the separate leaflet Chickenpox in Adults and Teenagers</a>.</p></div></div><div class="FurtherReading_furtherreading__rzIRH"><div class="Accordion_accordion-empty__ihyBX undefined" role="region"><div role="button" tabindex="0" class="Accordion_accordion-header__YUsYL"><h3 data-testid="furtherReading_header">Further reading and references</h3><div class="Accordion_accordion-icon__VMjnF"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M268 683q-11-11-11-28t11-28l184-184q6-6 13-8.5t15-2.5q8 0 15 2.5t13 8.5l185 185q11 11 11 27t-12 28q-11 11-28 11t-28-11L480 527 323 684q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></div></div><div class="Accordion_accordion-content__n7Fz_"><div class="FurtherReading_furtherreading-content__7yw9j FurtherReading_furtherreading-content-patient__YgxSJ"><div class=" Markup_markup__hjGOW FurtherReading_markup__LrR_5 " data-testid="markup"><ul><li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/immunisation-against-infectious-disease-the-green-book" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-testid="furtherReading_url">Immunisation against infectious disease - the Green Book (latest edition)<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M200 936q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120 856V296q0-33 23.5-56.5T200 216h240q17 0 28.5 11.5T480 256q0 17-11.5 28.5T440 296H200v560h560V616q0-17 11.5-28.5T800 576q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 616v240q0 33-23.5 56.5T760 936H200Zm160-240q-11-11-11-28t11-28l344-344H600q-17 0-28.5-11.5T560 256q0-17 11.5-28.5T600 216h200q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 256v200q0 17-11.5 28.5T800 496q-17 0-28.5-11.5T760 456V352L415 697q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></a><span data-testid="furtherReading_text">; UK Health Security Agency.</span></li><li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-in-schools-and-other-childcare-facilities/chapter-9-managing-specific-infectious-diseases#diarrhoea-and-vomiting-gastroenteritis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-testid="furtherReading_url">Guidance on infection control in schools and other childcare settings<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M200 936q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120 856V296q0-33 23.5-56.5T200 216h240q17 0 28.5 11.5T480 256q0 17-11.5 28.5T440 296H200v560h560V616q0-17 11.5-28.5T800 576q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 616v240q0 33-23.5 56.5T760 936H200Zm160-240q-11-11-11-28t11-28l344-344H600q-17 0-28.5-11.5T560 256q0-17 11.5-28.5T600 216h200q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 256v200q0 17-11.5 28.5T800 496q-17 0-28.5-11.5T760 456V352L415 697q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></a><span data-testid="furtherReading_text">; UK Health Security Agency (September 2017 - last updated February 2023)</span></li><li><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=26077272" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-testid="furtherReading_url">Cohen J, Breuer J<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M200 936q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120 856V296q0-33 23.5-56.5T200 216h240q17 0 28.5 11.5T480 256q0 17-11.5 28.5T440 296H200v560h560V616q0-17 11.5-28.5T800 576q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 616v240q0 33-23.5 56.5T760 936H200Zm160-240q-11-11-11-28t11-28l344-344H600q-17 0-28.5-11.5T560 256q0-17 11.5-28.5T600 216h200q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 256v200q0 17-11.5 28.5T800 496q-17 0-28.5-11.5T760 456V352L415 697q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></a><span data-testid="furtherReading_text">; Chickenpox: treatment. BMJ Clin Evid. 2015 Jun 15;2015. pii: 0912.</span></li><li><a href="https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng143" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-testid="furtherReading_url">Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M200 936q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120 856V296q0-33 23.5-56.5T200 216h240q17 0 28.5 11.5T480 256q0 17-11.5 28.5T440 296H200v560h560V616q0-17 11.5-28.5T800 576q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 616v240q0 33-23.5 56.5T760 936H200Zm160-240q-11-11-11-28t11-28l344-344H600q-17 0-28.5-11.5T560 256q0-17 11.5-28.5T600 216h200q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 256v200q0 17-11.5 28.5T800 496q-17 0-28.5-11.5T760 456V352L415 697q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></a><span data-testid="furtherReading_text">; NICE Guidance (last updated November 2021)</span></li><li><a href="https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/chickenpox/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" data-testid="furtherReading_url">Chickenpox<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 96 960 960"><path d="M200 936q-33 0-56.5-23.5T120 856V296q0-33 23.5-56.5T200 216h240q17 0 28.5 11.5T480 256q0 17-11.5 28.5T440 296H200v560h560V616q0-17 11.5-28.5T800 576q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 616v240q0 33-23.5 56.5T760 936H200Zm160-240q-11-11-11-28t11-28l344-344H600q-17 0-28.5-11.5T560 256q0-17 11.5-28.5T600 216h200q17 0 28.5 11.5T840 256v200q0 17-11.5 28.5T800 496q-17 0-28.5-11.5T760 456V352L415 697q-11 11-27 11t-28-12Z"></path></svg></a><span data-testid="furtherReading_text">; NICE CKS, June 2022 (UK access only)</span></li></ul></div></div></div></div></div><div class=" Markup_markup__hjGOW ArticleHistory_articlehistory__L8Zqh " data-testid="markup"><h2>Article history</h2><p class="ArticleHistory_articlehistory-desc__2QL_N" data-testid="article-history-desc">The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.</p><div class="ArticleHistory_reviewdate__K36Xw" data-testid="article-history-data"><ul><li class="ArticleHistory_reviewlist__h0dfS ArticleHistory_patient__PZUct" data-testid="review-due"><div class="ArticleHistory_dotted__8aA5T"><h6 data-testid="review-due-date">Next review due: 14 Mar 2028</h6></div></li><li class="ArticleHistory_patient__PZUct"><h6 class="ArticleHistory_date__QGJMl" data-testid="last-updated-date">16 Mar 2023 <span class="ArticleHistory_date-desc__zu5gX">| <!-- -->Latest version</span></h6><div class="ArticleHistory_noborder__NFsQ5" data-testid="last-updated-content"><p class="ArticleHistory_updateby__j5fGu">Last updated by</p><a href="https://patient.info/authors/dr-colin-tidy" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-large__FTF3Z " data-testid="updated-by-link">Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP</a><p class="ArticleHistory_reviewby__7adYK">Peer reviewed by</p><a href="https://patient.info/authors/dr-hayley-willacy" class="Link_linkcontainer__NFFuY Link_link-patient__KOvww Link_link-large__FTF3Z " data-testid="review-by-link">Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP </a></div></li></ul></div></div><div role="button" tabindex="0" class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_wrapper___fk52" data-testid="fluchecker-wrapper"><img alt="flu eligibility checker" data-testid="fluchecker-image" loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_image__NqI8N" style="position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent" sizes="100vw" srcSet="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=640&q=75 640w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=750&q=75 750w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=828&q=75 828w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=1080&q=75 1080w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=1200&q=75 1200w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=1600&q=75 1600w" src="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk%2Fcb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa%2FMobile.png&w=1600&q=75"/><div class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_content__E_9bE SymptomCheckerUpsell_flu-content__z1RDB"><div class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_description__Ik9HK"><h4 data-testid="fluchecker-title">Are you protected against flu?</h4><p data-testid="fluchecker-description">See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today.</p></div><button class=" Button_button__tNdYw Button_small__EyiNg Button_promo-light__iVZb6 " type="button" aria-label="Check now" data-testid="fluchecker-button" formTarget="_blank"><span>Check now</span></button></div></div><div role="button" tabindex="0" class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_wrapper___fk52" data-testid="symptomchecker-wrapper"><img alt="symptom checker" data-testid="symptomchecker-image" loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_image__NqI8N" style="position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent" sizes="100vw" srcSet="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=640&q=75 640w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=750&q=75 750w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=828&q=75 828w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=1080&q=75 1080w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=1200&q=75 1200w, /_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=1600&q=75 1600w" src="/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fxxv4b9mbhlgd%2F1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv%2F36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a%2FMobile.png&w=1600&q=75"/><div class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_content__E_9bE"><div class="SymptomCheckerUpsell_description__Ik9HK"><h4 data-testid="symptomchecker-title">Feeling unwell?</h4><p data-testid="symptomchecker-description">Assess your symptoms online for free</p></div><button class=" Button_button__tNdYw Button_small__EyiNg Button_promo-light__iVZb6 " type="button" aria-label="Check symptoms" data-testid="symptomchecker-button" formTarget="_blank"><span>Check symptoms</span></button></div></div></div><div class="Secondary_secondary__pe5je" data-testid="main-secondary"></div></div></div></main><footer><div class="Footer_footer__aTR_K"><div class="AppStores_appstore__2qdit"><h2 class="AppStores_appstore-header__1WPAX">Download the Patient Access app</h2><div class="AppStores_appstore-logo__aVWqC"></div></div><div class="FooterGroup_wrapper__aElsj"><div class="Outer_outer__BTURZ" data-testid="main-outer"><div class="Inner_inner__R1rvV Inner_block__s6wZg" data-testid="main-inner"><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup__tkREj"><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup-social--sm__j1N6z"><div><p class="Social_social__ehvTT">Follow us</p><div class="Social_social-icons__lPclH"><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Twitter page" data-testid="twitter" href="https://twitter.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M8.78,7.22l7.68,10.15h-1.19L7.51,7.22h1.28ZM24,11.99c0,6.63-5.37,12-12,12S0,18.62,0,11.99,5.37,0,12,0s12,5.37,12,12ZM19,18.65l-5.52-7.29,4.69-5.36h-2.15l-3.54,4.04-3.06-4.04h-4.43l5.29,6.92-5.02,5.73h2.15l3.87-4.42,3.38,4.42h4.32Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Facebook page" data-testid="facebook" href="https://www.facebook.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 0C18.63 0 24 5.40621 24 12.0745C24 18.0969 19.61 23.0957 13.88 24V15.5627H16.68L17.21 12.0745H13.88V9.8087C13.88 9.22236 14.06 8.64596 14.54 8.2882C14.84 8.06957 15.26 7.93043 15.83 7.93043H17.35V4.95901C17.35 4.95901 15.98 4.7205 14.66 4.7205C13.34 4.7205 12.16 5.13789 11.37 5.93292C10.58 6.72795 10.13 7.90062 10.13 9.42112V12.0745H7.08V15.5627H10.13V24C4.39 23.0957 0 18.0969 0 12.0745C0 5.40621 5.37 0 12 0Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Youtube page" data-testid="youtube" href="https://www.youtube.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M14.09 12.26L10.79 13.89C10.66 13.96 10.22 13.87 10.22 13.72V10.36C10.22 10.21 10.66 10.12 10.79 10.19L13.95 11.91C14.08 11.99 14.22 12.18 14.09 12.25V12.26ZM24 12C24 18.63 18.63 24 12 24C5.37 24 0 18.63 0 12C0 5.37 5.37 0 12 0C18.63 0 24 5.37 24 12ZM18.42 10.28C18.42 8.69 17.13 7.4 15.54 7.4H8.17C6.58 7.4 5.29 8.69 5.29 10.28V13.71C5.29 15.3 6.58 16.59 8.17 16.59H15.54C17.13 16.59 18.42 15.3 18.42 13.71V10.28Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our LinkedIn page" data-testid="linkedin" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/patient/"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 24C18.6274 24 24 18.6274 24 12C24 5.37258 18.6274 0 12 0C5.37258 0 0 5.37258 0 12C0 18.6274 5.37258 24 12 24ZM6.38683 9.82014H8.81174C8.91936 9.82014 9.00656 9.90738 9.00656 10.015V17.8051C9.00656 17.9127 8.91936 18 8.81174 18H6.38683C6.27921 18 6.19201 17.9127 6.19201 17.8051V10.015C6.19201 9.90738 6.27921 9.82014 6.38683 9.82014ZM7.60013 5.94727C8.48175 5.94727 9.19901 6.6643 9.19898 7.54564C9.19898 8.42734 8.48175 9.14468 7.60013 9.14468C6.71781 9.14468 6 8.42738 6 7.54564C6 6.6643 6.71781 5.94727 7.60013 5.94727ZM12.849 10.5206C13.2857 10.0449 14.0057 9.62624 14.9796 9.62624C17.7108 9.62624 18.0791 11.6006 18.0791 13.5318V17.8049C18.0791 17.9125 17.9919 17.9997 17.8843 17.9997H15.4638C15.3562 17.9997 15.269 17.9125 15.269 17.8049V14.0173C15.269 12.9569 15.1906 12.1457 14.2045 12.1457C13.2992 12.1457 12.9464 12.6517 12.9464 13.9505V17.8048C12.9464 17.9125 12.8592 17.9997 12.7515 17.9997H10.3319C10.2243 17.9997 10.1371 17.9125 10.1371 17.8048V10.0147C10.1371 9.9071 10.2243 9.81986 10.3319 9.81986H12.6542C12.7618 9.81986 12.849 9.9071 12.849 10.0147V10.5206Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Instagram page" data-testid="instagram" href="https://www.instagram.com/patient.info/"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 0C5.37 0 0 5.36 0 12C0 18.64 5.37 24 12 24C18.63 24 23.99 18.63 24 12C23.99 5.36 18.63 0 12 0ZM19.04 14.88C19.04 17.15 17.19 19 14.92 19H9.08C6.81 19 4.96 17.15 4.96 14.88V9.04C4.96 6.77 6.81 4.92 9.08 4.92H14.92C17.19 4.92 19.04 6.77 19.04 9.04V14.88ZM14.92 6.27H9.08C7.54 6.27 6.29 7.52 6.29 9.06V14.9C6.29 16.44 7.54 17.69 9.08 17.69H14.92C16.46 17.69 17.71 16.44 17.71 14.9V9.06C17.71 7.52 16.46 6.27 14.92 6.27ZM10.87 15.23C9.91 14.9 9.13 14.12 8.8 13.16C7.85 10.37 10.42 7.77 13.24 8.71C14.21 9.04 15 9.82 15.33 10.8C16.27 13.61 13.67 16.19 10.88 15.24L10.87 15.23ZM15.73 9.11C15.27 9.11 14.9 8.74 14.9 8.28C14.9 7.82 15.27 7.45 15.73 7.45C16.19 7.45 16.56 7.82 16.56 8.28C16.56 8.74 16.19 9.11 15.73 9.11ZM14.28 11.99C14.28 13.21 13.28 14.21 12.06 14.21C10.84 14.21 9.84 13.21 9.84 11.99C9.84 10.77 10.84 9.77 12.06 9.77C13.28 9.77 14.28 10.77 14.28 11.99Z"></path></svg></a></div></div></div><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup-product__aIflC"><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup-product-links__3xuuf"><div><p class="FooterList_footerlist__H1Pg1">Patient</p><a href="https://patient.info/about-us" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="About us"><span>About us</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/commercial-opportunities" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Advertise with us"><span>Advertise with us</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/contact-us" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Contact us"><span>Contact us</span></a></div></div><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup-legal__OFvrH"><div><p class="FooterList_footerlist__H1Pg1">Legal</p><a href="https://patient.info/accessibility-statement" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Accessibility statement"><span>Accessibility statement</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/cookies" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Cookie policy"><span>Cookie policy</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/privacy-policy" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Privacy policy"><span>Privacy policy</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/terms-and-conditions" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Terms of use"><span>Terms of use</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/editorial-policy" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Editorial policy"><span>Editorial policy</span></a><a href="https://patient.info/authors" class="FooterList_footerlist-item__KtJi1" data-testid="Authors"><span>Authors</span></a></div></div></div><div class="FooterGroup_footergroup-social--lg__PrTNt"><div><p class="Social_social__ehvTT">Follow us</p><div class="Social_social-icons__lPclH"><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Twitter page" data-testid="twitter" href="https://twitter.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M8.78,7.22l7.68,10.15h-1.19L7.51,7.22h1.28ZM24,11.99c0,6.63-5.37,12-12,12S0,18.62,0,11.99,5.37,0,12,0s12,5.37,12,12ZM19,18.65l-5.52-7.29,4.69-5.36h-2.15l-3.54,4.04-3.06-4.04h-4.43l5.29,6.92-5.02,5.73h2.15l3.87-4.42,3.38,4.42h4.32Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Facebook page" data-testid="facebook" href="https://www.facebook.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 0C18.63 0 24 5.40621 24 12.0745C24 18.0969 19.61 23.0957 13.88 24V15.5627H16.68L17.21 12.0745H13.88V9.8087C13.88 9.22236 14.06 8.64596 14.54 8.2882C14.84 8.06957 15.26 7.93043 15.83 7.93043H17.35V4.95901C17.35 4.95901 15.98 4.7205 14.66 4.7205C13.34 4.7205 12.16 5.13789 11.37 5.93292C10.58 6.72795 10.13 7.90062 10.13 9.42112V12.0745H7.08V15.5627H10.13V24C4.39 23.0957 0 18.0969 0 12.0745C0 5.40621 5.37 0 12 0Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Youtube page" data-testid="youtube" href="https://www.youtube.com/patient"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M14.09 12.26L10.79 13.89C10.66 13.96 10.22 13.87 10.22 13.72V10.36C10.22 10.21 10.66 10.12 10.79 10.19L13.95 11.91C14.08 11.99 14.22 12.18 14.09 12.25V12.26ZM24 12C24 18.63 18.63 24 12 24C5.37 24 0 18.63 0 12C0 5.37 5.37 0 12 0C18.63 0 24 5.37 24 12ZM18.42 10.28C18.42 8.69 17.13 7.4 15.54 7.4H8.17C6.58 7.4 5.29 8.69 5.29 10.28V13.71C5.29 15.3 6.58 16.59 8.17 16.59H15.54C17.13 16.59 18.42 15.3 18.42 13.71V10.28Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our LinkedIn page" data-testid="linkedin" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/patient/"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 24C18.6274 24 24 18.6274 24 12C24 5.37258 18.6274 0 12 0C5.37258 0 0 5.37258 0 12C0 18.6274 5.37258 24 12 24ZM6.38683 9.82014H8.81174C8.91936 9.82014 9.00656 9.90738 9.00656 10.015V17.8051C9.00656 17.9127 8.91936 18 8.81174 18H6.38683C6.27921 18 6.19201 17.9127 6.19201 17.8051V10.015C6.19201 9.90738 6.27921 9.82014 6.38683 9.82014ZM7.60013 5.94727C8.48175 5.94727 9.19901 6.6643 9.19898 7.54564C9.19898 8.42734 8.48175 9.14468 7.60013 9.14468C6.71781 9.14468 6 8.42738 6 7.54564C6 6.6643 6.71781 5.94727 7.60013 5.94727ZM12.849 10.5206C13.2857 10.0449 14.0057 9.62624 14.9796 9.62624C17.7108 9.62624 18.0791 11.6006 18.0791 13.5318V17.8049C18.0791 17.9125 17.9919 17.9997 17.8843 17.9997H15.4638C15.3562 17.9997 15.269 17.9125 15.269 17.8049V14.0173C15.269 12.9569 15.1906 12.1457 14.2045 12.1457C13.2992 12.1457 12.9464 12.6517 12.9464 13.9505V17.8048C12.9464 17.9125 12.8592 17.9997 12.7515 17.9997H10.3319C10.2243 17.9997 10.1371 17.9125 10.1371 17.8048V10.0147C10.1371 9.9071 10.2243 9.81986 10.3319 9.81986H12.6542C12.7618 9.81986 12.849 9.9071 12.849 10.0147V10.5206Z"></path></svg></a><a class="Social_social-icons__lPclH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Visit our Instagram page" data-testid="instagram" href="https://www.instagram.com/patient.info/"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="24" width="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><path d="M12 0C5.37 0 0 5.36 0 12C0 18.64 5.37 24 12 24C18.63 24 23.99 18.63 24 12C23.99 5.36 18.63 0 12 0ZM19.04 14.88C19.04 17.15 17.19 19 14.92 19H9.08C6.81 19 4.96 17.15 4.96 14.88V9.04C4.96 6.77 6.81 4.92 9.08 4.92H14.92C17.19 4.92 19.04 6.77 19.04 9.04V14.88ZM14.92 6.27H9.08C7.54 6.27 6.29 7.52 6.29 9.06V14.9C6.29 16.44 7.54 17.69 9.08 17.69H14.92C16.46 17.69 17.71 16.44 17.71 14.9V9.06C17.71 7.52 16.46 6.27 14.92 6.27ZM10.87 15.23C9.91 14.9 9.13 14.12 8.8 13.16C7.85 10.37 10.42 7.77 13.24 8.71C14.21 9.04 15 9.82 15.33 10.8C16.27 13.61 13.67 16.19 10.88 15.24L10.87 15.23ZM15.73 9.11C15.27 9.11 14.9 8.74 14.9 8.28C14.9 7.82 15.27 7.45 15.73 7.45C16.19 7.45 16.56 7.82 16.56 8.28C16.56 8.74 16.19 9.11 15.73 9.11ZM14.28 11.99C14.28 13.21 13.28 14.21 12.06 14.21C10.84 14.21 9.84 13.21 9.84 11.99C9.84 10.77 10.84 9.77 12.06 9.77C13.28 9.77 14.28 10.77 14.28 11.99Z"></path></svg></a></div></div></div></div><div class="EditorialPolicy_policy__5FYta" data-testid="editorial-policy"><p data-testid="editorial-policy-description">Our clinical information meets the standards set by the NHS in their Standard for Creating Health Content guidance.聽</p><h6 class="EditorialPolicy_readmore__7p3Rd"><a href="https://patient.info/editorial-policy" aria-label="Link to Editorial Policy" data-testid="editorial-policy-link">Read our editorial policy</a>.</h6></div></div></div></div><div class="Disclaimer_wrapper__skwd4"><div class="Outer_outer__BTURZ" data-testid="main-outer"><div class="Inner_inner__R1rvV Inner_block__s6wZg" data-testid="main-inner"><div class="Disclaimer_disclaimer__LIA__" data-testid="disclaimer"><p class="Disclaimer_intro__TxiQ9" data-testid="disclaimer-description-1">Patient is a part of<!-- --> <a href="https://www.emisgroupplc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="Disclaimer_logo___2BC4" aria-label="Link to EMIS Group" data-testid="disclaimer-emis-group-link"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="26" width="101.9" viewBox="0 0 675 172" fill="none"><path d="M633.561 99.1623C611.379 93.8564 605.368 91.23 605.368 82.8555V82.5151C605.368 75.8341 612.068 71.5186 622.433 71.5186C630.589 71.5186 639.126 73.9416 648.524 78.9292C652.838 81.2151 658.147 80.1407 660.889 76.4221L664.864 71.0455C665.567 70.1011 666.061 69.0177 666.314 67.8674C666.567 66.717 666.572 65.5259 666.33 64.3733C666.081 63.246 665.594 62.185 664.902 61.2609C664.211 60.3368 663.331 59.5709 662.32 59.0143C650.674 52.4395 637.382 49.11 622.812 49.11C596.509 49.11 578.137 63.8339 578.137 84.9248V85.2653C578.137 109.619 595.705 115.69 620.534 121.611C641.219 126.567 646.885 129.959 646.885 137.405V137.754C646.885 145.173 639.749 149.599 627.803 149.599C616.806 149.599 606.437 146.42 596.089 139.872C594.489 138.865 592.636 138.331 590.746 138.333C589.449 138.316 588.163 138.574 586.973 139.09C585.782 139.606 584.714 140.368 583.839 141.327L579.281 146.354C578.477 147.228 577.878 148.27 577.526 149.405C577.175 150.54 577.081 151.739 577.25 152.916C577.452 154.183 577.928 155.392 578.644 156.457C579.36 157.522 580.3 158.419 581.397 159.084C594.871 167.542 610.707 171.999 627.22 171.999C656.142 171.999 674.103 157.877 674.103 135.154V134.814C674.103 113.404 657.895 105.074 633.561 99.1491" fill="white"></path><path d="M550.323 49.9146H539.282C537.069 49.9146 534.947 50.7928 533.38 52.3568C531.813 53.9207 530.929 56.0429 530.922 58.2582V162.077C530.928 164.293 531.811 166.415 533.379 167.98C534.946 169.544 537.069 170.422 539.282 170.42H550.323C552.536 170.422 554.659 169.544 556.226 167.98C557.793 166.415 558.677 164.293 558.683 162.077V58.2582C558.676 56.0429 557.792 53.9207 556.225 52.3568C554.658 50.7928 552.535 49.9146 550.323 49.9146Z" fill="white"></path><path d="M500.226 49.9147H481.677C478.904 49.9147 476.819 51.1086 475.53 53.1867C474.673 54.5397 448.149 97.1107 447.999 97.3274C447.862 97.1107 421.325 54.5397 420.472 53.1867C419.147 51.1086 417.089 49.9147 414.316 49.9147H395.697C394.599 49.9095 393.51 50.1212 392.494 50.5376C391.478 50.9541 390.553 51.5672 389.774 52.3417C388.995 53.1163 388.375 54.0372 387.952 55.0517C387.528 56.0662 387.309 57.1543 387.306 58.2538V162.077C387.309 163.177 387.528 164.265 387.952 165.279C388.375 166.294 388.995 167.215 389.774 167.989C390.553 168.764 391.478 169.377 392.494 169.793C393.51 170.21 394.599 170.421 395.697 170.416H405.148C407.36 170.419 409.483 169.542 411.051 167.978C412.618 166.415 413.502 164.292 413.508 162.077L413.574 88.7495C413.574 88.7495 442.955 133.178 444.232 135.176L444.329 135.335C445.433 137.06 446.705 137.851 448.003 137.776C449.328 137.851 450.569 137.06 451.673 135.335L451.779 135.176C453.047 133.195 482.432 88.7495 482.432 88.7495V162.077C482.439 164.292 483.324 166.414 484.891 167.977C486.458 169.54 488.58 170.417 490.792 170.416H500.248C502.46 170.419 504.583 169.542 506.151 167.978C507.718 166.415 508.602 164.292 508.608 162.077V58.2538C508.602 56.0386 507.718 53.9162 506.151 52.3527C504.583 50.7892 502.46 49.9124 500.248 49.9147" fill="white"></path><path d="M362.641 49.9146L305.229 49.9412C284.279 49.9412 268.482 65.8589 268.482 86.9808V133.279C268.463 138.672 269.613 144.005 271.852 148.91C274.09 153.815 277.364 158.176 281.448 161.692L282.614 162.643C289.026 167.653 296.997 170.314 305.627 170.314L362.645 170.416C364.861 170.409 366.985 169.525 368.552 167.956C370.119 166.387 371.003 164.26 371.01 162.042V152.049C371.003 149.83 370.119 147.704 368.552 146.135C366.985 144.566 364.861 143.681 362.645 143.674H305.605C303.262 143.674 301.016 142.743 299.359 141.084C297.703 139.426 296.772 137.177 296.772 134.831V124.529C296.773 124.326 296.813 124.126 296.891 123.939C296.969 123.752 297.083 123.582 297.227 123.439C297.37 123.296 297.541 123.183 297.728 123.106C297.915 123.029 298.116 122.99 298.318 122.99H349.918C352.046 122.868 354.048 121.935 355.511 120.381C356.973 118.828 357.786 116.773 357.783 114.638V105.494C357.776 103.275 356.892 101.149 355.325 99.58C353.758 98.011 351.635 97.1265 349.419 97.1195H298.287C298.084 97.12 297.883 97.0806 297.696 97.0033C297.508 96.926 297.338 96.8124 297.194 96.6691C297.051 96.5257 296.937 96.3554 296.859 96.1679C296.781 95.9804 296.741 95.7794 296.741 95.5763V85.2873C296.741 82.9419 297.672 80.6927 299.328 79.0342C300.985 77.3758 303.231 76.4441 305.574 76.4441H362.636C364.853 76.4371 366.976 75.5526 368.543 73.9836C370.11 72.4146 370.994 70.2885 371.001 68.0697V58.2891C370.994 56.0702 370.11 53.9442 368.543 52.3752C366.976 50.8062 364.853 49.9216 362.636 49.9146" fill="white"></path><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M87.5695 83.9836C90.9833 87.3579 94.1853 90.9403 97.1572 94.7104C96.8628 91.5445 96.7156 88.3521 96.7156 85.1332C96.6778 61.4072 105.017 38.4312 120.259 20.2641C135.632 38.46 144.052 61.5304 144.018 85.3631C144.018 88.4877 143.871 91.5932 143.577 94.6794C146.062 91.5217 148.71 88.496 151.508 85.6146C148.715 88.4963 146.072 91.522 143.591 94.6794C143.415 96.5689 143.19 98.4466 142.916 100.312C142.913 100.345 142.913 100.377 142.916 100.41C142.859 100.804 142.796 101.199 142.732 101.594C142.711 101.725 142.689 101.857 142.668 101.988C142.642 102.13 142.62 102.276 142.598 102.43C142.515 102.923 142.427 103.414 142.333 103.903C142.302 104.075 142.271 104.243 142.236 104.416C142.147 104.898 142.05 105.375 141.953 105.848C141.918 106.025 141.882 106.198 141.843 106.37C141.741 106.852 141.639 107.334 141.529 107.816L141.516 107.876L141.497 107.957L141.496 107.96C141.475 108.054 141.452 108.15 141.432 108.258C140.917 110.487 140.328 112.697 139.665 114.89L139.506 115.417C139.374 115.858 139.237 116.269 139.096 116.693L139.096 116.694C139.025 116.916 138.954 117.137 138.879 117.358C138.791 117.625 138.699 117.892 138.607 118.159L138.606 118.163L138.529 118.388L138.469 118.565L138.217 119.281L137.775 120.457L137.497 121.187L137.419 121.392C137.299 121.709 137.179 122.028 137.055 122.341C136.963 122.579 136.866 122.817 136.769 123.055L136.768 123.057C136.614 123.446 136.459 123.835 136.296 124.224C136.276 124.274 136.254 124.324 136.233 124.374L136.232 124.374L136.232 124.376C136.218 124.407 136.204 124.439 136.191 124.471C136.178 124.501 136.166 124.53 136.154 124.56C135.81 125.374 135.455 126.183 135.09 126.988C135.049 127.079 135.008 127.171 134.967 127.262C134.886 127.445 134.805 127.628 134.719 127.81C134.591 128.084 134.414 128.46 134.255 128.788L133.836 129.672L133.372 130.565L132.931 131.449C132.776 131.754 132.617 132.055 132.458 132.356C132.385 132.493 132.31 132.635 132.234 132.778C132.144 132.948 132.052 133.121 131.963 133.289C131.869 133.467 131.78 133.632 131.69 133.798L131.687 133.802L131.686 133.804L131.684 133.807C131.644 133.882 131.602 133.958 131.561 134.035C131.536 134.08 131.511 134.126 131.486 134.173C131.323 134.478 131.12 134.832 130.934 135.159C130.749 135.486 130.634 135.69 130.493 135.955L130.408 136.102L130.353 136.198L130.352 136.199C130.176 136.507 129.999 136.814 129.804 137.118L129.723 137.255L129.722 137.257C129.631 137.413 129.541 137.567 129.446 137.724C129.102 138.294 128.744 138.864 128.386 139.435L127.998 140.032L127.834 140.284L127.833 140.285C127.64 140.582 127.447 140.88 127.251 141.172C127.182 141.28 127.111 141.382 127.04 141.485C126.956 141.606 126.871 141.728 126.787 141.862L126.631 142.094C126.449 142.363 126.266 142.632 126.081 142.897C125.917 143.136 125.754 143.37 125.586 143.604L124.866 144.612L124.363 145.302C124.107 145.647 123.855 145.983 123.595 146.324L123.104 146.973L122.221 148.074L121.779 148.614C121.341 149.159 120.899 149.699 120.455 150.232L120.485 170.412L125.489 165.328C128.268 162.395 130.889 159.316 133.341 156.104C146.068 139.859 154.242 120.671 156.944 100.315C158.863 98.0492 160.836 95.858 162.967 93.7462C179.981 76.8584 202.36 66.4626 226.226 64.3604C223.995 88.0018 213.501 110.096 196.593 126.749C179.579 143.637 157.2 154.031 133.334 156.13C130.882 159.342 128.261 162.421 125.482 165.354L120.478 170.439L126.082 170.31C156.221 169.854 185.014 157.733 206.423 136.49C227.702 115.54 239.952 87.0882 240.557 57.2151L240.707 50.0521L233.477 50.1582C205.536 50.5892 178.678 61.0455 157.786 79.6254C157.786 79.6205 157.786 79.6155 157.785 79.6106L157.766 79.6279C156.403 51.6544 144.832 25.1547 125.249 5.15557L120.232 0L115.224 5.17326C95.7263 25.2009 84.2336 51.6872 82.9192 79.6239C84.5002 81.03 86.0503 82.4832 87.5695 83.9836ZM155.644 81.5613C155.304 81.8788 154.965 82.1983 154.628 82.52C154.965 82.1982 155.304 81.8786 155.644 81.5613ZM107.369 156.13L107.345 156.1C94.5318 139.877 86.4206 120.553 83.7408 100.233C81.8367 97.9959 79.8319 95.8308 77.7263 93.7373C60.72 76.8468 38.3471 66.4462 14.4854 64.3382C16.7157 87.9796 27.21 110.074 44.1185 126.727C61.1265 143.621 83.5034 154.023 107.369 156.13ZM82.8919 79.6238C62.0076 61.0503 35.1604 50.5948 7.22943 50.1582L0 50.03L0.150153 57.1929C0.757044 87.0654 13.0071 115.516 34.2835 136.468C55.6939 157.71 84.4855 169.83 114.624 170.288L120.092 170.421H120.48L116.951 166.869L120.479 170.417L120.448 150.237C120.007 149.702 119.565 149.162 119.123 148.618L118.682 148.079C118.39 147.712 118.099 147.345 117.799 146.973L117.304 146.324C117.042 145.987 116.786 145.647 116.535 145.302L116.023 144.608C115.78 144.276 115.542 143.94 115.303 143.604L115.241 143.517C115.093 143.311 114.943 143.102 114.8 142.892C114.65 142.678 114.502 142.463 114.353 142.247C114.266 142.119 114.178 141.99 114.089 141.862C114.036 141.783 113.982 141.707 113.929 141.63L113.929 141.63L113.929 141.629L113.928 141.629C113.826 141.482 113.722 141.333 113.621 141.168C113.365 140.782 113.113 140.397 112.866 140.014L112.787 139.895L112.787 139.895C112.684 139.739 112.58 139.581 112.481 139.426C112.124 138.864 111.766 138.298 111.421 137.728L110.98 137.007C110.952 136.96 110.924 136.913 110.896 136.866L110.811 136.724L110.811 136.723L110.81 136.722C110.659 136.47 110.509 136.218 110.362 135.964C110.194 135.681 110.03 135.393 109.871 135.106C109.79 134.959 109.7 134.802 109.608 134.642L109.607 134.641L109.604 134.635L109.603 134.635C109.517 134.484 109.429 134.331 109.346 134.182C109.174 133.872 109.01 133.572 108.847 133.267C108.795 133.17 108.744 133.076 108.694 132.984C108.586 132.783 108.48 132.588 108.374 132.382L107.871 131.423L107.429 130.583C107.257 130.247 107.089 129.915 106.926 129.575C106.798 129.318 106.674 129.062 106.55 128.805C106.501 128.702 106.452 128.6 106.403 128.497L106.401 128.492L106.401 128.492L106.4 128.491C106.277 128.233 106.153 127.974 106.034 127.713L105.835 127.271C105.411 126.351 105.002 125.426 104.607 124.494L104.47 124.176L104.375 123.944C104.228 123.585 104.086 123.237 103.94 122.88L103.903 122.788C103.884 122.739 103.865 122.691 103.845 122.643C103.8 122.531 103.755 122.419 103.711 122.305C103.614 122.05 103.518 121.807 103.424 121.565C103.38 121.454 103.337 121.343 103.293 121.232C103.268 121.166 103.242 121.099 103.216 121.032L102.991 120.435C102.832 119.993 102.673 119.551 102.518 119.14L102.319 118.578C102.161 118.136 102.006 117.694 101.878 117.216C101.838 117.107 101.804 116.999 101.769 116.888C101.757 116.85 101.745 116.812 101.732 116.774L101.732 116.772C101.568 116.273 101.405 115.774 101.246 115.275C100.507 112.917 99.8582 110.526 99.2988 108.103C99.2877 108.061 99.2778 108.019 99.2679 107.977L99.2678 107.977L99.2678 107.977L99.2677 107.977C99.2578 107.935 99.2479 107.893 99.2369 107.851C99.1243 107.36 99.019 106.865 98.9143 106.373L98.9139 106.371L98.8836 106.229L98.8174 105.923C98.7026 105.375 98.5922 104.827 98.4862 104.279C98.4862 104.221 98.4706 104.161 98.4553 104.102C98.4507 104.084 98.4461 104.066 98.442 104.049C97.8532 100.965 97.4116 97.8497 97.1171 94.7015C94.1495 90.9318 90.9519 87.3494 87.5427 83.9747C86.0294 82.4714 84.4793 81.0182 82.8923 79.6151L82.8919 79.6238Z" fill="white"></path></svg></a></p><p data-testid="disclaimer-description-2">漏 2025 Egton Medical Information Systems Limited. All rights reserved.<br/> Registered number: 02117205 Registered office: Fulford Grange, Micklefield Lane, Rawdon, Leeds, LS19 6BA.</p><p data-testid="disclaimer-description-3">Patient is a UK registered trade mark.</p><p data-testid="disclaimer-description-4">Patient does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.</p></div></div></div></div></div></footer><div class="LeaderBoardAd_mobilewrapper__x7zCg" id="leaderboard-mobilead" data-testid="leaderboard-ad-container" aria-label="Leaderboard Advertisement" role="banner"><div id="div-gpt-ad-1695130981630-0" data-adunit="Leaderboard-App" data-dimensions="320,50,300,50" data-targeting="{}" class="LeaderBoardAd_mobilewrapper-active__l5Aht" data-testid-adspossibledimensions="320,50,300,50"></div></div></div></div><script id="__NEXT_DATA__" type="application/json">{"props":{"pageProps":{"responseData":{"data":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletCollection","items":[{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","sys":{"id":"doc_4215","publishedVersion":55,"__typename":"Sys"},"title":"Chickenpox in children","type":"PatientInformationLeaflet","isArchived":false,"showAffiliateAds":false,"subTitle":null,"authoredBy":null,"documentCreatedDate":null,"reviewDue":"2028-03-14T00:00:00.000Z","lastUpdatedDate":"2023-03-16T00:00:00.000Z","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children","sponsor":null,"serviceUpsell":null,"contentupsellCollection":{"items":[{"introduction":{"json":{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{},"marks":[],"value":"Coughs and colds are usually caused by infection with a germ called a virus. They normally clear away on their own. Antibiotic medicines don't help, and can cause harms, such as diarrhoea and vomiting. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may ease some of the symptoms. Make sure the child has enough to drink.","nodeType":"text"}],"nodeType":"paragraph"}],"nodeType":"document"}},"title":"Coughs and colds in children","type":"PatientInformationLeaflet","slug":"/chest-lungs/cough-leaflet/coughs-and-colds-in-children","authoredBy":null,"heroImage":null,"lastUpdatedBy":{"title":"Dr","firstName":"Doug","surname":"McKechnie, MRCGP","middleName":null},"primaryTopic":{"navigationHierarchyCollection":{"items":[{"displayName":"Children's health"}]}}}],"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletContentupsellCollection"},"metaData":{"__typename":"TopicSeoMetaData","title":"Chickenpox in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment","description":"Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Written by a GP."},"structuredData":{"__typename":"TopicSeoMedicalCondition","associatedAnatomyName":"Immune system","actualConditionName":null,"possibleTreatmentName":"Ease discomfort","signOrSymptomName":"Small blisters","riskFactors":null,"primaryPreventionTreatmentName":null},"introduction":{"json":{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{},"content":[{"data":{},"marks":[],"value":"Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Full recovery is usual in children aged under 12 years. Serious complications are rare but are more likely to occur in children with a poor immune system, such as those on chemotherapy.","nodeType":"text"}],"nodeType":"paragraph"}],"nodeType":"document"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletIntroduction","links":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletIntroductionLinks","entries":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletIntroductionEntries","block":[],"hyperlink":[]}}},"secondaryTopicsCollection":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletSecondaryTopicsCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicCategory","displayName":"Skin rashes"},{"__typename":"TopicCategory","displayName":"Viral infections"},{"__typename":"TopicCategory","displayName":"Conditions \u0026 treatments"}]},"furtherReadingCollection":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletFurtherReadingCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicReferences","referenceText":"Immunisation against infectious disease - the Green Book (latest edition); UK Health Security Agency.","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/immunisation-against-infectious-disease-the-green-book"},{"__typename":"TopicReferences","referenceText":"Guidance on infection control in schools and other childcare settings; UK Health Security Agency (September 2017 - last updated February 2023)","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-in-schools-and-other-childcare-facilities/chapter-9-managing-specific-infectious-diseases#diarrhoea-and-vomiting-gastroenteritis"},{"__typename":"TopicReferences","referenceText":"Cohen J, Breuer J; Chickenpox: treatment. BMJ Clin Evid. 2015 Jun 15;2015. pii: 0912.","url":"http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve\u0026db=PubMed\u0026dopt=Abstract\u0026list_uids=26077272"},{"__typename":"TopicReferences","referenceText":"Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management; NICE Guidance (last updated November 2021)","url":"https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng143"},{"__typename":"TopicReferences","referenceText":"Chickenpox; NICE CKS, June 2022 (UK access only)","url":"https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/chickenpox/"}]},"lastUpdatedBy":{"__typename":"TopicAuthor","title":"Dr","firstName":"Colin","surname":"Tidy, MRCGP","middleName":null,"slug":"/authors/dr-colin-tidy","jobTitle":"General Practitioner, Medical Author","showPublicProfile":true,"externalLinksCollection":{"items":[],"__typename":"TopicAuthorExternalLinksCollection"},"image":{"__typename":"WrapperImage","image":{"__typename":"Asset","url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/au_img_de71309f-192f-4ea0-9e73-d6183fbe1bda/6d11ee3fe28ea6a0287170740bafc34f/users-Colin.jpg"}}},"peerReviewer":{"__typename":"TopicAuthor","title":"Dr","firstName":"Hayley","surname":"Willacy, FRCGP ","middleName":null,"slug":"/authors/dr-hayley-willacy","jobTitle":"General Practitioner, Medical Author","showPublicProfile":true,"externalLinksCollection":{"__typename":"TopicAuthorExternalLinksCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicExternalLink","url":"http://www.rcgp.org.uk/rcgp-near-you/faculties/north-west-england-region/cumbria-faculty.aspx"},{"__typename":"TopicExternalLink","url":"http://sites.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/cbme/index.aspx"},{"__typename":"TopicExternalLink","url":"http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/lms/"}]},"image":{"__typename":"WrapperImage","image":{"__typename":"Asset","url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/au_img_9ae78124-a78f-4c03-b7b9-2a4f553aa0aa/355ee644cf70356c662cc9175e6132c2/users-Hayley.png"}}},"primaryTopic":{"__typename":"TopicCategory","name":"Childhood infections","displayName":"Childhood infections","contentLinkCollection":{"items":[],"__typename":"TopicCategoryContentLinkCollection"},"category":{"sys":{"id":"2d7ca44e-2026-43da-8287-1adfa77ddc1b","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"TopicCategory"},"navigationHierarchyCollection":{"__typename":"TopicCategoryNavigationHierarchyCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicCategory","name":"Health advice","displayName":"Health advice","contentLinkCollection":{"items":[],"__typename":"TopicCategoryContentLinkCollection"}},{"__typename":"TopicCategory","name":"Health topics","displayName":"Health topics","contentLinkCollection":{"__typename":"TopicCategoryContentLinkCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicLandingPage","slug":"/health"}]}},{"__typename":"TopicCategory","name":"Children's Health","displayName":"Children's health","contentLinkCollection":{"__typename":"TopicCategoryContentLinkCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicCategoryLandingPage","slug":"/childrens-health"}]}}]}},"heroImage":{"__typename":"WrapperImage","title":"What is the difference between hand, foot and mouth disease and chickenpox","altText":"What is the difference between hand, foot and mouth disease and chickenpox","image":{"__typename":"Asset","url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/img_9707/a091809abce9819e3b7fe36c814ad134/72d65446-de65-411f-96d8-3a1e5698051c.jpg","width":1500,"height":638}},"body":{"json":{"nodeType":"document","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"What is chickenpox?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"w_vid_6344","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most children have chickenpox at some stage. Most commonly, children get chickenpox before the age of 10 years. The immune system makes proteins called ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4752","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"antibodies","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" during the infection. These fight the virus and then provide lifelong protection against it (immunity). Therefore, it is uncommon to have more than one bout of chickenpox in your lifetime.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"w_img_9376","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"By Gzzz, ","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"hyperlink","data":{"uri":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0"},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"CC BY-SA 4.0","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", via Wikimedia Commons","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Chickenpox symptoms","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4343","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"High temperature (fever), aches and headache","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" often start a day or so before a rash appears.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Spots (rash)","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":". Spots appear in crops. They develop into small blisters and are itchy. They can be anywhere on the body. Several crops may develop over several days. Some children may be covered in spots; others have only a few or even none. The rash starts off looking like red spots, which then blister, and then scab over.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Loss of appetite or feeding problems","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"w_img_9377","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"脴yvind Holmstad, ","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"hyperlink","data":{"uri":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0"},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"CC BY-SA 4.0","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", via Wikimedia Commons","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Some children feel quite unwell for a few days. Others appear only mildly ill. Most are much better within a week. The blisters dry up and scab. They gradually fade but may take up to two weeks to go completely.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"What are the possible complications?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Most of the time, children with chickenpox recover fully and have no complications. Uncommonly, one or more of the following complications can occur.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"The spots do not usually scar unless they are badly scratched.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Some spots become infected with germs (bacteria) in some cases. This is the most common complication in children. If this occurs, the surrounding skin becomes red and sore. Antibiotics in the form of creams or medicine may then be needed.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4491","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of the lung (pneumonia)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" and ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_12400","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" are rare complications.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Vary rarely, other serious complications develop. For example:\n","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Reye's syndrome. (a very rare condition with brain and liver problems).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4271","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_12572","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4564","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Appendicitis","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Ataxia (problems co-ordinating movements).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4568","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_13595","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Henoch-Sch枚nlein purpura","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" (a condition that can affect the kidneys).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4605","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of the testes (orchitis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_29025","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of the joints (arthritis)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Inflammation of various parts of the eye.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Therefore, although serious complications are rare, it is best to be watchful. See a doctor if your child develops any worrying symptoms that you are unsure about such as:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Breathing problems.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Weakness such as a child becoming wobbly on his/her feet.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Drowsiness.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Fits (convulsions).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Pains or headaches which become worse despite paracetamol.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Being unable to take fluids, due to a severe rash in the mouth.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A severe rash, or a rash which bruises or bleeds into the skin (haemorrhagic rash).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Becoming generally more and more unwell.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Shingles","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4328","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Shingles","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and is a very delayed complication of chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox in the past may develop shingles.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Shingles is an infection of a nerve and the area of skin supplied by the nerve. It causes a rash and pain in a local band-like area along the affected nerve. About 1 in 5 people have shingles at some time in their lives. It can occur at any age, but it is most common in people over the age of 50.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"The reason why shingles may occur is because the virus does not completely go after you have chickenpox. Some virus particles remain inactive in the nerve roots next to your spinal cord. They do no harm there and cause no symptoms.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"For reasons that are not clear, the virus may begin to multiply again (reactivate). This is often years later. The reactivated virus travels along the nerve to the skin to cause shingles. ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4328","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"See the separate leaflet called Shingles (Herpes Zoster) for details","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Note","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":": you can catch chickenpox from being exposed to a person with shingles if you have not had chickenpox yourself. However, you cannot catch shingles from a person with chickenpox, or catch shingles from a person with shingles.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"embedded-entry-block","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"4GlvCEwRQrRsnAKpdnjQZu","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[]},{"nodeType":"hr","data":{},"content":[]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"What is the treatment for chickenpox in children?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Treatment is mainly aimed at easing symptoms and trying to make your child as comfortable as possible whilst the immune system deals with the virus.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A soothing cream (emollient)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"This may help the itch. Calamine lotion is the one most used, although it is not known how effective it is.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A sedating antihistamine","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A tablet or liquid medicine may help with sleep if itch is a problem. This can be used in children over 1 year old. Give a dose at bedtime. You can buy these at pharmacies or get them on prescription. ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_3207","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Chlorphenamine (Piriton庐)","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" is the one most used. It can also be helpful for itch during the daytime but may cause some sleepiness as a side-effect.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Keep fingernails cut short","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Keeping your child's fingernails short will help to stop deep scratching.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Dress children comfortably","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Use cool smooth fabrics such as cotton so they are not cold or overheated.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Dealing with a fever","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A fever commonly occurs with chickenpox, and may make your child feel uncomfortable and irritable. The following are things that you can do that may bring the temperature down and make your child feel more comfortable:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"You can give paracetamol","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"This will help to lower a temperature. You can buy ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_1443","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"paracetamol","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" in liquid form, or as melt-in-the-mouth tablets, for children. It comes in various brand names. The dose for each age is given with the medicine packet.\n\nParacetamol does not treat the cause of the fever. It merely helps to ease discomfort. It also eases headaches, and aches and pains. You do not need to use paracetamol if your child is comfortable and not distressed by the fever, aches or pains.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Ibuprofen has been used with paracetamol in the past. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended that ibuprofen no longer be used for chickenpox. This is because some studies suggested that there may be an association with more severe skin reactions if ibuprofen is used for chickenpox. While more evidence is awaited, the advice is to avoid ibuprofen in this situation.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Take extra layers of clothes off your child","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"If the room is normal room temperature. It is wrong to wrap up a feverish child. The aim is to prevent overheating or shivering.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Give lots to drink","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"This helps to prevent a lack of fluid in the body (dehydration). You might find that a child is more willing to have a good drink if they are not so irritable. So, if they are not keen to drink, it may help to give some paracetamol first. Then, try the child with drinks half an hour or so later when his/her temperature is likely to have come down.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Other treatments","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Do not cold-sponge a child who has a fever. This used to be popular, but it is now not advised. This is because the blood vessels under the skin become narrower (constrict) if the water is too cold. This reduces heat loss and can trap heat in deeper parts of the body. The child may then get worse. Many children also find cold-sponging uncomfortable.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Some people use a fan to cool a child. Again, this may not be a good idea if the fanned air is too cold. However, a gentle flow of air in a room which is room temperature may be helpful. Perhaps just open the window or use a fan on the other side of the room to keep the air circulating.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"For special at-risk groups","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Some children have a higher risk of developing complications from chickenpox. In addition to the above treatments, they may need extra treatment such as ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_1401","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"aciclovir","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":" (an antiviral medicine) or vaccination. If your child has not already had chickenpox and is in one in the following groups, you should see a doctor urgently if they have contact with chickenpox, or have symptoms of it:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Children (babies) less than 1 month old.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Children with a poor immune system. For example, children with ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4876","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"leukaemia","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", immune diseases or ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4832","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"HIV/AIDS","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Children taking certain medication such as steroids, immune-suppressing medication or chemotherapy.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Children with severe heart or lung disease.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Children with severe skin conditions.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Antiviral medication is also used for adults and teenagers who develop chickenpox, as they too have a higher risk of complications. However, antiviral medication is not normally advised for healthy children aged over 1 month and under 12 years who develop chickenpox.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Is chickenpox infectious?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A person with chickenpox is very infectious. The virus spreads in the air from person to person. For example, if you have not already had chickenpox, you stand a good chance of catching it if:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"You are in the same room as someone with chickenpox for more than 15 minutes; ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":"or","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"You have any face-to-face contact with someone with chickenpox, such as a conversation.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Nine in ten people who have not had chickenpox would catch it after being exposed in this way.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"It takes between 7 and 21 days (most commonly 10-14 days) to develop symptoms after catching the virus (the incubation period).","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Protecting others","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"A person with chickenpox is infectious from two days before the spots first appear until they have all crusted over (commonly about five days after onset of the rash). A child with chickenpox should stay off school or nursery for five days from the onset of the rash and until all the lesions have crusted. Also, whilst infectious, they should keep away from at-risk people who may develop a severe illness if they get chickenpox. These include:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox in the past. Chickenpox can be severe and cause complications during pregnancy. ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4406","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"See the separate leaflet called Chickenpox Contact in Pregnancy for more information","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"People with a poorly functioning immune system. For example, people with ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4876","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"leukaemia","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", with ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4832","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"HIV/AIDS","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", on ","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4518","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"steroid medication","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":", or who are having chemotherapy.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"The at-risk children listed earlier.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Healthy adults who have not had chickenpox may also want to avoid catching it, as the illness tends to be worse in adults.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Note","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":": people with chickenpox should not travel by air until all the spots have crusted over.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Are you a healthcare worker?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Healthcare workers come into contact with people with poor immune systems, pregnant women and newborn babies. They should be aware that if they catch chickenpox, they can be infectious for two days before a rash or illness appears, and be a risk to patients. So, if you are a healthcare worker and come into contact with someone who has chickenpox (or who develops it within the following two days), then:","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"If you have been immunised against chickenpox, or have definitely had chickenpox in the past, you are likely to be immune. You should continue working but contact your occupational health department if you feel unwell or develop a rash.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"If you are uncertain about whether you have had chickenpox or been immunised, you should have a test to see if you are immune. If you are not immune you should:\n","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Avoid contact with high-risk patients for 8-21 days after the contact.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Report to occupational health before patient contact if you feel unwell or develop a high temperature (fever) or rash.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Get immunised against the chickenpox virus (the varicella-zoster virus).","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Is there a vaccine against chickenpox?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Yes, there is a vaccine that protects against the virus that causes chickenpox. It is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme in certain countries such as the USA, Canada and Australia. Currently, there are no plans to make immunisation against chickenpox routine for","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_30904","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":" children in the UK","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"In the UK, the vaccine is offered by the NHS to certain groups. For example, healthcare workers who are not immune to chickenpox. Also, to people who are not immune to chickenpox and who are in close contact with people with a poor immune system. For example, brothers and sisters of children on chemotherapy.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"The chickenpox vaccine is available privately from many pharmacists for people aged 3-65 who are not pregnant, breastfeeding or trying for a baby. You will need a consultation with your pharmacist to check this vaccination is suitable for you or your child before it is given.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_32413","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"See also the separate article Should your child have the chickenpox vaccine?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Should I let my child catch chickenpox?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Some parents encourage their children to mix with others who have chickenpox in order to catch it.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Pros","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Chickenpox is usually a milder illness in a child than in an adult.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"The risk of serious complications is higher in adults. In particular, chickenpox during pregnancy can cause serious complications to both mother and baby.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Most people get chickenpox at some stage. As the risks are fewer if you have it as a child, it may be better to get it over with.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"heading-3","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Cons","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"unordered-list","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"\"I could not willingly let my child develop an illness.\"","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},{"nodeType":"list-item","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Although rare, some children do have serious complications.","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Different parents have different views on this issue. And remember, children who develop chickenpox spots (the rash) today will have been just as infectious over the previous two days when they were well, but were incubating the virus.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Also note","marks":[{"type":"bold"}],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"text","value":": if someone in the family or home is temporarily at high risk of complications (listed earlier - pregnant women, etc) then it is best to put off deliberately catching it.","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"heading-2","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"Can I go to work if my child has chickenpox?","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"If your child has chickenpox, you may need to stay at home to look after them until they can go back to school or nursery (when all the spots have formed a scab, which is usually five days after the spots first appear).\n\nIf you're healthy and have had chickenpox, you are otherwise fine to go to work and carry on normally, even if your child has chickenpox, but you should stick to good hygiene such as washing your hands frequently.\n\nIf you haven't had chickenpox or can't be certain that you have, you should assume that you will catch it from your child and so stay at home until all your spots have formed a scab. But remember it takes between 7 and 21 days (most commonly 10-14 days) to develop symptoms after catching the virus. It is particularly important to stay away from people who are at greater risk of complications if they catch the chickenpox virus (see special at-risk groups above).","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"paragraph","data":{},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"","marks":[],"data":{}},{"nodeType":"entry-hyperlink","data":{"target":{"sys":{"id":"doc_4405","type":"Link","linkType":"Entry"}}},"content":[{"nodeType":"text","value":"See also the separate leaflet Chickenpox in Adults and Teenagers","marks":[],"data":{}}]},{"nodeType":"text","value":".","marks":[],"data":{}}]}]},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletBody","links":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletBodyLinks","entries":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletBodyEntries","inline":[],"hyperlink":[{"sys":{"id":"doc_4752","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Antibody and antigen tests","slug":"/allergies-blood-immune/antibody-and-antigen-tests"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4343","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Fever in children","slug":"/childrens-health/fever-in-children-high-temperature"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4491","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Pneumonia","slug":"/chest-lungs/chest-infection/pneumonia"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_12400","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Encephalitis","slug":"/brain-nerves/encephalitis-leaflet"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4271","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"High blood pressure","slug":"/heart-health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_12572","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Glomerulonephritis","slug":"/kidney-urinary-tract/glomerulonephritis-leaflet"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4564","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Appendicitis","slug":"/digestive-health/appendicitis-leaflet"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4568","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Acute pancreatitis","slug":"/digestive-health/gallstones-and-bile/acute-pancreatitis"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_13595","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Henoch-Sch枚nlein purpura","slug":"/allergies-blood-immune/henoch-schonlein-purpura-leaflet"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4605","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Epididymo-orchitis","slug":"/mens-health/scrotal-lumps-pain-and-swelling/epididymo-orchitis"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_29025","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Arthritis","slug":"/bones-joints-muscles/arthritis"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4328","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Shingles","slug":"/skin-conditions/shingles-herpes-zoster-leaflet"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_3207","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PageMedicineLeaflet","title":"Chlorphenamine for allergies","slug":"/medicine/chlorphenamine-for-allergies-allerief-hayleve-piriton"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_1443","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PageMedicineLeaflet","title":"Paracetamol","slug":"/medicine/paracetamol-calpol-disprol-panadol"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_1401","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PageMedicineLeaflet","title":"Aciclovir for viral infections","slug":"/medicine/aciclovir-for-viral-infections-zovirax"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4876","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Leukaemia","slug":"/cancer/leukaemia"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4832","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"HIV and AIDs","slug":"/sexual-health/hiv-and-aids"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4406","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Chickenpox contact in pregnancy","slug":"/pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/chickenpox-contact-in-pregnancy"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4518","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Oral steroids","slug":"/treatment-medication/steroids/oral-steroids"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_30904","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Why isn't the chickenpox vaccine available on the NHS?","slug":"/news-and-features/should-your-child-have-the-chickenpox-vaccine"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_32413","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Should your child get the chickenpox vaccine?","slug":"/news-and-features/should-your-child-get-the-chickenpox-vaccine"},{"sys":{"id":"doc_4405","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Chickenpox in adults and teenagers","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-adults-and-teenagers"}],"block":[{"sys":{"id":"w_vid_6344","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"WrapperVideo","title":"What is chickenpox?","description":"Dr Sarah Jarvis Chickenpox causes spots (a rash) and can make a child feel generally unwell. Treatment aims to ease symptoms until the illness goes. Full recovery is usual in children aged under 12 years. Serious complications are rare but are more likely to occur in children with a poor immune system, such as those on chemotherapy.","youtubeVideoId":"6wiWtYbwhlg","thumbnailUrl":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/5mBWVyf4KauzzOZwZl3vhK/762e959675ddef0bc47b28852a41dbbb/What_is_chickenpox.jpg","uploadDate":"2018-09-03T00:00:00.000Z","author":{"__typename":"TopicAuthor","title":"Dr","firstName":"Sarah","surname":"Jarvis MBE, FRCGP","slug":"/authors/dr-sarah-jarvis-mbe","showPublicProfile":true}},{"sys":{"id":"w_img_9376","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"WrapperImage","title":"Severe chickenpox","altText":"Severe chickenpox","image":{"__typename":"Asset","url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/img_9376/84d1d6d6a3263f5846fa382aff8592f4/6de27269-96a5-4ccc-8f62-76f3a055f245.jpg","width":360,"height":480}},{"sys":{"id":"w_img_9377","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"WrapperImage","title":"Chickenpox in a child","altText":"Chickenpox in a child","image":{"__typename":"Asset","url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/img_9377/c16c443793e39ee4df78f7f2fe91e2b8/ad1484f2-3ebb-453a-b38f-88ce5b9bfd28.jpg","width":256,"height":171}},{"sys":{"id":"4GlvCEwRQrRsnAKpdnjQZu","__typename":"Sys"},"__typename":"TopicPlaceholder","name":"ServiceUpsellPlaceholder","type":"Service","quizId":null}]}}},"linkedFrom":{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeafletLinkingCollections","topicSeriesCollection":{"__typename":"TopicSeriesCollection","items":[{"__typename":"TopicSeries","name":"Viral Rashes","seriesCollection":{"__typename":"TopicSeriesSeriesCollection","items":[{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Viral rashes","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes","isParent":true},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Measles","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/measles","isParent":false},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Chickenpox in children","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children","isParent":false},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Chickenpox in adults and teenagers","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-adults-and-teenagers","isParent":false},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Scarlet fever","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/scarlet-fever","isParent":false},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"Hand, foot and mouth disease","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease","isParent":false},{"__typename":"PagePatientInformationLeaflet","title":"School exclusion for infections","slug":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/school-exclusion-for-infections","isParent":false}]}}]}}}]},"symptomCheckerData":{"data":{"topicConfigurationCollection":{"items":[{"data":{"symptomChecker":{"title":"Feeling unwell?","ctaURL":"/symptom-checker","ctaLabel":"Check symptoms","mobileImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv/36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a/Mobile.png","desktopImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/4YO2oGN3nTyecJaazD5OMM/a915fdc3dae8d6afe9c93dcfa4c2cfcf/Desktop.png","mobileDescription":"Assess your symptoms online for free","desktopDescription":"Assess your symptoms online with our free symptom checker"}}}]}}},"fluCheckerData":{"data":{"topicConfigurationCollection":{"items":[{"data":{"fluChecker":{"title":"Are you protected against flu?","ctaURL":"https://www.patientaccess.com/flu?utm_source=patientinfo\u0026utm_campaign=flu2024\u0026utm_medium=articlepage","ctaLabel":"Check now","mobileImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk/cb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa/Mobile.png","desktopImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/1ae1sfcd33FdQnZccOAKh6/13974bd1c61b914e6f4a4a6562598363/Desktop.png","mobileDescription":"See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today.","desktopDescription":"See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today."}}}]}}},"adType":"ptoAd"},"layoutData":[{"name":"FluChecker","data":{"fluChecker":{"title":"Are you protected against flu?","ctaURL":"https://www.patientaccess.com/flu?utm_source=patientinfo\u0026utm_campaign=flu2024\u0026utm_medium=articlepage","ctaLabel":"Check now","mobileImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/6Ldah2APk3TFdA2GmCfTgk/cb9eec6573b0ed3376e53aa0f5bdb5aa/Mobile.png","desktopImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/1ae1sfcd33FdQnZccOAKh6/13974bd1c61b914e6f4a4a6562598363/Desktop.png","mobileDescription":"See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today.","desktopDescription":"See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today."}}},{"name":"FooterNavigation","data":{"ProductNavigation":[{"id":1,"name":"About us","path":"/about-us"},{"id":2,"name":"Advertise with us","path":"/commercial-opportunities"},{"id":3,"name":"Contact us","path":"/contact-us"}],"LegalNavigation":[{"id":1,"name":"Accessibility statement","path":"/accessibility-statement"},{"id":2,"name":"Cookie policy","path":"/cookies"},{"id":3,"name":"Privacy policy","path":"/privacy-policy"},{"id":4,"name":"Terms of use","path":"/terms-and-conditions"},{"id":5,"name":"Editorial policy","path":"/editorial-policy"},{"id":6,"name":"Authors","path":"/authors"}]}},{"name":"MedicalHubNavigation","data":[{"id":1,"name":"Medical Professional Hub","path":"/doctor","className":"navigation-item--med-hub","icon":"IconHealthAndSafety","dataTestId":"medical_professional_hub","children":[]},{"id":2,"name":"Professional articles","path":"/doctor/articles","className":"navigation-item--med-hub","icon":"IconClinicalNotes","dataTestId":"professional_articles","children":[]},{"id":3,"name":"Medical tools and resources","path":"/medical-calculators","className":"navigation-item--med-hub","icon":"IconPrescription","dataTestId":"medical_tools_and_resources","children":[]}]},{"name":"PatientNavigation","data":[{"id":1,"name":"Home","path":"/","className":"navigation-item--home","icon":"IconHome","dataTestId":"home","children":[]},{"id":2,"name":"GP practice services","path":"/gp-practice-services","className":"navigation-item--gp-services","icon":"IconEcgHeart","dataTestId":"gp_practice_services","children":[]},{"id":3,"name":"Health advice","path":"/health","className":"navigation-item--health-advice","icon":"IconImportContacts","dataTestId":"health_advice","children":[{"id":1,"name":"Health topics","dataTestId":"health_topics","icon":"IconDiagnosis","description":"Advice and clinical information on a wide variety of healthcare topics.","path":"/health","children":[{"id":1,"title":"All health topics","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Latest features","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/news-and-features"},{"id":2,"name":"All health topics","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/health"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Allergies, blood \u0026 immune system","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/allergies-blood-immune"},{"id":2,"name":"Bones, joints and muscles","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/bones-joints-muscles"},{"id":3,"name":"Brain and nerves","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/brain-nerves"},{"id":4,"name":"Cancer","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/cancer"},{"id":5,"name":"Chest and lungs","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/chest-lungs"},{"id":6,"name":"Children's health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/childrens-health"},{"id":7,"name":"Cosmetic surgery","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/cosmetic-surgery"},{"id":8,"name":"Diabetes","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu","path":"/diabetes"},{"id":9,"name":"Digestive health","path":"/digestive-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":10,"name":"Ear, nose and throat","path":"/ear-nose-throat","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":11,"name":"Eye health","path":"/eye-care","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":12,"name":"Foot care","path":"/foot-care","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":13,"name":"General health \u0026 lifestyle","path":"/general-health-and-lifestyle","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":14,"name":"Heart health and blood vessels","path":"/heart-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":15,"name":"Hormones","path":"/hormones","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":16,"name":"Infections","path":"/infections","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":17,"name":"Kidney \u0026 urinary tract","path":"/kidney-urinary-tract","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":18,"name":"Men's health","path":"/mens-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":19,"name":"Mental health","path":"/mental-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":20,"name":"Oral and dental care","path":"/oral-dental-care","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":21,"name":"Pregnancy","path":"/pregnancy","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":22,"name":"Senior health","path":"/senior-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":23,"name":"Sexual health","path":"/sexual-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":24,"name":"Signs and symptoms","path":"/signs-symptoms","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":25,"name":"Skin, nail and hair health","path":"/skin-conditions","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":26,"name":"Travel and vaccinations","path":"/travel-and-vaccinations","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":27,"name":"Treatment and medication","path":"/treatment-medication","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"},{"id":28,"name":"Women's health","path":"/womens-health","dataTestId":"healthtopics_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":2,"name":"Healthy living","dataTestId":"healthy_living","icon":"IconSpa","description":"Expert insight and opinion on nutrition, physical and mental health.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Healthy living","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Latest features","path":"/news-and-features","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Cold and flu season","path":"/cold-and-flu-season","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Exercise and physical activity","path":"/healthy-living#exerciseandphysicalactivity","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Healthy eating","path":"/healthy-living#healthyeating","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"Healthy relationships","path":"/healthy-living#healthyrelationships","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"Managing harmful habits","path":"/healthy-living#managingharmfulhabits","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"Mental wellbeing","path":"/healthy-living#mentalwellbeing","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"},{"id":6,"name":"Relaxation and sleep","path":"/healthy-living#relaxationandsleep","dataTestId":"healthyliving_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":3,"name":"Managing conditions","dataTestId":"managing_conditions","icon":"IconHealing","description":"From ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure, to steroids for eczema, find out what options are available, how they work and the possible side effects.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Featured conditions","section":[{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"ADHD in children","path":"/childrens-health/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Asthma","path":"/chest-lungs/asthma-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"Chickenpox","path":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/chickenpox-in-children","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"COPD","path":"/chest-lungs/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"Crohn's disease","path":"/digestive-health/inflammatory-bowel-disease/crohns-disease","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":6,"name":"Diabetes","path":"/diabetes/diabetes-mellitus-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":7,"name":"Endometriosis","path":"/womens-health/pelvic-pain-in-women/endometriosis","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":8,"name":"Fibromyalgia","path":"/signs-symptoms/tiredness-fatigue/fibromyalgia","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":9,"name":"Gastroenteritis","path":"/digestive-health/diarrhoea/gastroenteritis","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":10,"name":"Hives","path":"/skin-conditions/hives-inducible-urticaria","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":11,"name":"Irritable bowel syndrome","path":"/digestive-health/irritable-bowel-syndrome-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":12,"name":"Polycystic ovary syndrome","path":"/womens-health/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":13,"name":"Psoriasis","path":"/skin-conditions/psoriasis-leaflet","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":14,"name":"Scarlet fever","path":"/skin-conditions/viral-rashes/scarlet-fever","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":15,"name":"Strep A","path":"/infections/strep-a-group-a-strep-gas","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":16,"name":"Tonsillitis","path":"/ears-nose-throat-mouth/sore-throat-2/tonsillitis","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":17,"name":"Vaginal thrush","path":"/sexual-health/vaginal-discharge-female-discharge/vaginal-thrush-yeast-infection","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"},{"id":18,"name":"Vertigo","path":"/signs-symptoms/dizziness/vertigo","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Health conditions A-Z","path":"/managing-conditions","dataTestId":"managingconditions_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":4,"name":"Medicine information","dataTestId":"medicine_information","icon":"IconSortByAlpha","description":"Information and fact sheets for patients and professionals. Find out side effects, medicine names, dosages and uses.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Medicine information","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"All medicines A-Z","path":"/medicine","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Allergy medicines","path":"/allergy-medicines","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Analgesics and pain medication","path":"/analgesics-and-pain-medication","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"Anti-inflammatory medicines","path":"/anti-inflammatory-medicines","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"Breathing treatment and respiratory care","path":"/breathing-treatment-and-respiratory-care","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"Cancer treatment and drugs","path":"/cancer-treatment-and-drugs","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":6,"name":"Contraceptive medicines","path":"/contraceptive-medicines","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":7,"name":"Diabetes medicines","path":"/diabetes-medicines","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":8,"name":"ENT and mouth care","path":"/ent-and-mouth-care","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":9,"name":"Eye care medicine","path":"/eye-care-medicine","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":10,"name":"Gastrointestinal treatment","path":"/gastrointestinal-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":11,"name":"Genitourinary medicine","path":"/genito-urinary-medicine","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":12,"name":"Heart disease treatment and prevention","path":"/heart-disease-treatment-and-prevention","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":13,"name":"Hormonal imbalance treatment","path":"/hormonal-imbalance-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":14,"name":"Hormone deficiency treatment","path":"/hormone-deficiency-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":15,"name":"Immunosuppressive drugs","path":"/immunosuppressive-drugs","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":16,"name":"Infection treatment medicine","path":"/infection-treatment-medicine","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":17,"name":"Kidney conditions treatments","path":"/treatment-for-kidneys","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":18,"name":"Muscle, bone and joint pain treatment","path":"/muscle-bone-and-joint-pain-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":19,"name":"Nausea medicine and vomiting treatment","path":"/nausea-medicine-and-vomiting-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":20,"name":"Nervous system drugs","path":"/nervous-system-drugs","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":21,"name":"Reproductive health","path":"/fertility-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":22,"name":"Skin conditions treatments","path":"/treatments-for-skin-conditions","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":23,"name":"Substance abuse treatment","path":"/substance-abuse-treatment","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":24,"name":"Vaccines and immunisation","path":"/vaccines-and-immunisation","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"},{"id":25,"name":"Vitamin and mineral supplements","path":"/vitamin-and-mineral-supplements","dataTestId":"medicineinformation_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":5,"name":"Tests \u0026 investigations","dataTestId":"tests_investigations","icon":"IconFluidMedFillOn","description":"Information and guidance about tests and an easy, fast and accurate symptom checker.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Tests \u0026 investigations","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"About tests \u0026 investigations","path":"/about-tests-and-investigations","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Symptom checker","path":"/symptom-checker","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Blood tests","path":"/treatment-medication/blood-tests","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"BMI calculator","path":"/doctor/bmi-calculator","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"Pregnancy due date calculator","path":"/doctor/pregnancy-due-date-calculator","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"General signs and symptoms","path":"/signs-symptoms","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":6,"name":"Patient health questionnaire","path":"/doctor/patient-health-questionnaire-phq-9","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":7,"name":"Generalised anxiety disorder assessment","path":"/doctor/generalised-anxiety-disorder-assessment-gad-7","dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]}]},{"id":4,"name":"Health research","path":"/clinical-research","className":"navigation-item--health-research","icon":"IconScience","dataTestId":"health_research","children":[]},{"id":5,"name":"Medical professionals","path":"/doctor","className":"navigation-item--professional-hub","icon":"IconImportContacts","dataTestId":"professional_hub","children":[{"id":1,"name":"Medical professional hub","dataTestId":"hub","icon":"IconMedicalServices","description":"Information and tools written by clinicians for medical professionals, and training resources provided by FourteenFish.","path":"/doctor","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Medical professional hub","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Content for medical professionals","path":"/doctor","dataTestId":"medicalprofessionalhub_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"FourteenFish training","path":"https://www.fourteenfish.com/","isExternalLink":true,"dataTestId":"medicalprofessionalhub_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":2,"name":"Professional articles","dataTestId":"professional_articles","icon":"IconClinicalNotes","description":"Evidence-based professional reference pages authored by our clinical team for the use of medical professionals.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Professional articles","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"View all professional articles A-Z","path":"/doctor/articles","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Actinic keratosis","path":"/doctor/actinic-keratosis-pro","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"Bronchiolitis","path":"/doctor/bronchiolitis-pro","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"Depression","path":"/doctor/depression-pro","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"Molluscum contagiosum","path":"/doctor/molluscum-contagiosum-pro","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"Obesity in adults","path":"/doctor/obesity-in-adults","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":6,"name":"Osmolality, osmolarity, and fluid homeostasis","path":"/doctor/osmolality-osmolarity-and-fluid-homeostasis","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"},{"id":7,"name":"Recurrent abdominal pain in children","path":"/doctor/recurrent-abdominal-pain-in-children-pro","dataTestId":"professionalarticles_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]},{"id":3,"name":"Medical tools and resources","dataTestId":"medicaltools_resources","icon":"IconStethoscope","description":"Clinical tools for medical professional use.","children":[{"id":1,"title":"Medical tools and resources","section":[{"id":1,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"All medical tools and resources","path":"/medical-calculators","dataTestId":"medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"}]},{"id":2,"items":[{"id":1,"name":"Isabel DDx Companion professional symptom checker","path":"https://www.isabelhealthcare.com/","isExternalLink":true,"dataTestId":"testsinvestigations_tertiarymenu"},{"id":2,"name":"BMI calculator","path":"/doctor/bmi-calculator","dataTestId":"medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"},{"id":3,"name":"Generalised anxiety disorder assessment","path":"/doctor/generalised-anxiety-disorder-assessment-gad-7","dataTestId":"medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"},{"id":4,"name":"Patient health questionnaire","path":"/doctor/patient-health-questionnaire-phq-9","dataTestId":"medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"},{"id":5,"name":"Pregnancy due date calculator","path":"/doctor/pregnancy-due-date-calculator","dataTestId":"medicaltoolsresources_tertiarymenu"}]}]}]}]}]},{"name":"SymptomChecker","data":{"symptomChecker":{"title":"Feeling unwell?","ctaURL":"/symptom-checker","ctaLabel":"Check symptoms","mobileImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/1Dz6L58ffaUwLTR9rak3zv/36beafd6fb6750c8ff21fe2a4fc4d86a/Mobile.png","desktopImageIcon":"https://images.ctfassets.net/xxv4b9mbhlgd/4YO2oGN3nTyecJaazD5OMM/a915fdc3dae8d6afe9c93dcfa4c2cfcf/Desktop.png","mobileDescription":"Assess your symptoms online for free","desktopDescription":"Assess your symptoms online with our free symptom checker"}}}]},"__N_SSG":true},"page":"/[level1]/[...level2]","query":{"level1":"skin-conditions","level2":["viral-rashes","chickenpox-in-children"]},"buildId":"C4Ju4xBM4oHPTPJruIAXB","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"gsp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}</script></body></html>