Chickenpox (Varicella)

Treatment for chickenpox depends on your age, your health, how long it's been since you were exposed to the virus, and your symptoms.

• A healthy child with chickenpox may need only home treatment to help relieve itching and monitor fever. For more information, see Reference Home Treatment.

  Reference Reference Chickenpox: Controlling the Itch

• Healthy teens and adults with chickenpox usually have more severe symptoms than children and are at higher risk for Reference complications than healthy children. If you are older than age 12, are pregnant, or have a Reference weak immune system Opens New Window, your doctor may want to give you a medicine or vaccine that helps protect you from the virus. For more information, see Reference Medications. Home treatment measures can also help to make you more comfortable.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.