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Pediatrics Chickenpox
Pediatrics Chickenpox

Chickenpox treatment available online today

Request chickenpox treatment or set up an appointment to get the chickenpox vaccine today from your smartphone or computer. Our doctors can order lab tests to the lab nearest you to confirm the presence of chickenpox (varicella zoster virus). If prescribed, pick up prescription medication for chickenpox today.*

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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of chickenpox. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms, but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

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Learn about chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus)

Chickenpox (varicella-zoster) is a highly contagious infection. Chickenpox causes an itchy rash that blisters and then scabs over.

While most people experience relatively mild cases of chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus can cause serious illnesses in certain populations. Fortunately, the chickenpox vaccine can protect against chickenpox and complications.

 

Chickenpox causes

Chickenpox infection is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The chickenpox virus is highly contagious, and children can develop chickenpox at any age. Chickenpox is spread by:

  • Coming into contact with someone who has chickenpox

  • Breathing air from an infected person who sneezes or coughs

  • Coming into contact with fluids from an infected person's eyes, nose, or mouth

Chickenpox symptoms

Chickenpox symptoms usually appear in the following order:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Headache

  • A stomach ache, which can last for 1–2 days

  • An itchy skin rash with small red spots

  • Fluid-filled blisters, which break and leak

  • Scabs and crusts, which can take several days to heal


Chickenpox spots may continue to appear for several days. Some children may experience all three stages of the rash—bumps, small blisters, and scabbed lesions—at the same time.

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How to treat chickenpox

The best treatment for chickenpox involves plenty of rest and fluids. Chickenpox will go away on its own within a week or two. However, in some cases, doctors can prescribe antiviral medication.

To help your child feel better, try the following at-home treatments to alleviate symptoms:

  • Press a cool rag on the skin rash.

  • Keep your child cool by giving them a cool bath or shower.

  • Encourage your child not to scratch chickenpox blisters. Trim their fingernails to prevent scratching.

  • Apply lotion with antihistamines to the rash and surrounding skin.

  • Give your child over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Benadryl.

Aspirin can harm children who have fevers. If your child needs a pain reliever, use acetaminophen. If you're not sure what medications are safe, talk to your healthcare provider.

Chickenpox medication

In most healthy children, over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe antihistamines to reduce itching.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications to lower the risk of serious complications. Medical treatment is not necessary for most children with chickenpox.

Antiviral medication

If you or your child face a high risk of complications from chickenpox (for example, if you have a weakened immune system), your doctor may recommend antiviral medication.

Antivirals can lower the risk of serious complications when given within 24 hours after the rash appears. Your doctor may prescribe:

Acyclovir (Zovirax) Valtrex Famvir (famciclovir)
Sitavig
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How to prevent chickenpox

The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the chickenpox vaccination provides complete protection for 98 percent of people who receive both recommended doses.

Although the chickenpox vaccine doesn't provide complete protection, it can significantly lower the severity of chickenpox. The vaccine is recommended for:

  • Young children

  • Unvaccinated older children

  • Unvaccinated adults who have never had chickenpox

The vaccine isn't approved for:

  • Pregnant women

  • People with weakened immune systems

  • People who are allergic to gelatin or neomycin (an antibiotic)

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When to see a doctor for chickenpox

If you or your child experience any symptoms of chickenpox, talk to your doctor. In most cases, your doctor will be able to diagnose chickenpox by examining the rash.

If appropriate, your healthcare provider can prescribe medications to lessen the severity of chickenpox and treat complications. To avoid infecting other people in the waiting room, consider scheduling an online appointment.

 

Chickenpox treatment FAQs

What is the best treatment for chickenpox?

Most cases of chickenpox don't require medical treatment. Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and antihistamines, can help relieve fever and itching. However, the best way to prevent chickenpox is by getting the vaccine.

What is the best medicine for chickenpox?

If you or your child face a high risk of complications, your doctor may prescribe antivirals to lower the severity of chickenpox infection.

Is there a vaccine against chickenpox?

Yes, the chickenpox vaccine is highly effective in preventing chickenpox. If you're thinking about getting vaccinated, our doctors can help you schedule an appointment.

How long does chickenpox take to heal?

Most people recover from chickenpox in about a week without treatment. Home remedies, such as pain relievers and antihistamines, can help reduce itching and other symptoms.

How long is chickenpox contagious?

A person can spread chickenpox from 1–2 days before a rash starts to all the chickenpox spots have crusted (scabs).

For vaccinated people who develop breakthrough chickenpox, chickenpox is contagious until no new lesions have appeared for 24 hours.

Can you get chickenpox twice?

Yes, it's possible to develop chickenpox twice. Most people who have had chickenpox will be immune to chickenpox for the rest of their lives. In rare cases, a second case can happen.

Because the chickenpox virus remains inactive in nerve tissue, it can reactive later in life, causing shingles. If you're not sure whether you've had chickenpox, your doctor can administer a blood test to confirm your immunity.

Can chickenpox go away without treatment?

Yes, chickenpox usually goes away in about a week without any treatment. However, over-the-counter medications can help relieve itching and other symptoms.

3 simple steps to request your chickenpox prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a chickenpox treatment request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your chickenpox symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

If prescribed, pick up a prescription for chickenpox treatment.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Related conditions to chickenpox

Shingles (herpes zoster)

After a person recovers from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus remains latent in the body. Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, happens when the virus is reactivated

Strep throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that makes the throat feel sore and scratchy. Research suggests that exposure to the varicella virus can increase a person's risk for strep throat.

Pneumonia

In rare cases, varicella-zoster infection can cause severe illnesses, such as Varicella pneumonia.

Rash

The hallmark symptom of chickenpox is a red rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. The rash may start on the chest, back, or face, and then spread over the entire body.

How pricing works

To request treatment for chickenpox and get a prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

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Visits

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Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.