Chickenpox symptoms are caused by a widespread contagious viral infection, especially among young children. In England, between 2016 and 2022, general practitioner consultations for chickenpox averaged about 3.4 per 100,000 people per week, with the highest rates in children aged 1-4 years.
Although rates have been declining, many people remain susceptible because the chickenpox vaccination is not yet part of the universal NHS childhood schedule. In this article, we explain what chickenpox symptoms looks like, discuss chickenpox treatment, explore the options available for private chickenpox vaccination in the UK, and explain when to seek chickenpox medical advice from our experts.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common viral infection that mostly affects children but can also occur in adults. It usually causes an itchy chickenpox rash, small itchy chickenpox blisters, and mild flu-like symptoms. While most people recover without issues, some cases may need medical attention.
Who Is More Likely to Get It?
It mostly affects children under 10. Over 90% of people older than 15 in England and Wales have already had chickenpox and are immune.
What Are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?
The first signs of chickenpox symptoms often include:
- Fever and tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- A chickenpox rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters
- Itchy skin that later scabs over
Symptoms usually last about a week. Adults and people with weak immune systems may have more severe chickenpox symptoms.
How Chickenpox is Treated
Let us now explore some effective ways of treating chickenpox:
Home Remedies & Symptom Relief
In mild cases, chickenpox treatment often involves rest, drinking plenty of fluids, cool baths and suitable over-the-counter products to help manage fever and itching. Calamine lotion and antihistamines may help relieve skin irritation..
When Chickenpox Requires Medical Attention
Although most cases improve without complications, chickenpox can sometimes lead to skin infections, pneumonia or, in rare cases, encephalitis. Pregnant women, infants under one year of age and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of complications.
The Chickenpox Vaccine in the UK: Prevention & Options
The chickenpox vaccination provides protection against chickenpox and may help reduce the risk of complications. Although it is not currently part of the routine NHS childhood vaccination programme, private chickenpox vaccination is widely available across the UK.
Booking a chickenpox vaccination may be particularly beneficial for adults who have never had chickenpox and those who may be at risk of passing the infection to vulnerable individuals.
When to Seek Expert Help for Chickenpox Symptoms
You should seek chickenpox medical advice if:
- The chickenpox rash spreads to your eyes.
- You develop breathing difficulties.
- Symptoms are severe or do not improve.
- You are pregnant and think you have chickenpox.
Our pharmacists can advise on the most appropriate next steps and discuss chickenpox vaccination where suitable.
Protect Your Family with Vaccination
Private chickenpox vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of chickenpox and its potential complications. If you are considering chickenpox vaccination for yourself or your child, book an appointment with our pharmacists at The Pharmacy Bebington today.
FAQs about Chickenpox and Vaccination
The first signs often include a mild fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and an itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters.
Chickenpox usually lasts around 7 to 10 days. The rash develops in stages, from spots to blisters to scabs, before healing.
Yes, adults can get chickenpox if they have never had it before. Symptoms in adults are often more severe and can lead to complications.
Yes, the chickenpox vaccine is available in the UK, although it is not part of the NHS routine schedule. It can be booked privately through pharmacies and clinics.
You can get the chickenpox vaccine at local pharmacies, including The Pharmacy Bebington, through our private vaccination services.
You should seek help if the rash spreads to the eyes, if you have trouble breathing, if symptoms worsen, or if you are pregnant and think you have chickenpox.