Chickenpox is often considered a childhood illness, but adults who contract it can experience more severe symptoms and complications. With the availability of the chickenpox vaccine in Singapore, cases have significantly declined. However, outbreaks still occur, especially among children in schools and childcare centres.
Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures can help protect both children and adults from this highly contagious disease.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets or the fluid from their blisters. The virus is highly contagious, and individuals who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine are most susceptible.
Symptoms of Chickenpox in Children and Adults
Chickenpox typically starts with mild flu-like symptoms before a rash appears. The incubation period ranges from 10 to 21 days after exposure. In children, the illness is usually mild, but in adults, symptoms can be more severe and lead to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
Common Symptoms:
Fever and fatigue, often appearing 1–2 days before the rash.
An itchy, red rash that progresses to fluid-filled blisters before scabbing over.
Loss of appetite and irritability in younger children.
Severe cases in adults may involve persistent fever, breathing difficulties, or neurological symptoms.
Dr. Daniel Lim, a CHAS-accredited doctor and senior physician at Oaklife Family Clinic, shares, “While chickenpox is often mild in children, adults are at a much higher risk of complications. If you’re an adult who hasn’t had chickenpox or the vaccine, it’s crucial to seek vaccination to prevent severe illness.”
Treatment and Home Care for Chickenpox
There is no cure for chickenpox, but managing symptoms can help ease discomfort and prevent complications. For children, treatment focuses on relieving itching and preventing secondary infections, while adults may require antiviral medication to reduce severity.
Managing Symptoms:
Keeping the skin cool and avoiding scratching to prevent scarring and bacterial infections.
Using calamine lotion or colloidal oatmeal baths to soothe itching.
Taking paracetamol for fever relief—avoid ibuprofen, as it may increase the risk of skin infections.
Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration.
In severe adult cases, antiviral medications such as acyclovir may be prescribed if taken within the first 24 hours of rash onset.
When to See a Doctor
While most cases of chickenpox resolve on their own, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention. Seek medical help if you or your child experience:
A high fever lasting more than four days.
Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Blisters that become swollen, painful, or filled with pus, indicating a secondary bacterial infection.
Preventing Chickenpox: Vaccination and Hygiene Practices
Vaccination is the best protection against chickenpox. In Singapore, the varicella vaccine is available and recommended for children as part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule. It is also advisable for adults who have never had chickenpox. Studies show that two doses of the vaccine are 90% effective in preventing the disease. Vaccinated individuals who do contract chickenpox usually experience a much milder form of the illness.
Beyond vaccination, good hygiene practices play a critical role in preventing the spread of chickenpox. Regular handwashing, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can reduce transmission risks.
A Parent’s Experience with Chickenpox
Samantha, a mother of two, recalls her experience when her five-year-old son contracted chickenpox.
“At first, we thought it was just an allergic rash, but when the blisters started appearing rapidly, we knew it was chickenpox. Keeping him from scratching was the hardest part! The calamine lotion helped, but what really worked was distracting him with cartoons and storytelling. We were thankful he had mild symptoms, but it made us realise the importance of vaccination. Our younger daughter got her shot as soon as she was eligible, and when she was later exposed to chickenpox, she only had a few spots and no fever.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can you get chickenpox more than once?
A. It is rare but possible. Most people develop lifelong immunity after an initial infection. However, in some cases, a weakened immune system can lead to reinfection.
Q. How long is a person contagious?
A. An individual with chickenpox is contagious from 1–2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have scabbed over, usually around 5–7 days.
Q. Can adults get the chickenpox vaccine?
A. Yes, adults who have never had chickenpox should consider getting vaccinated, especially if they work in healthcare or have close contact with young children.
Q. What is the difference between chickenpox and shingles?
A. Both are caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is the initial infection, while shingles occurs when the dormant virus reactivates later in life, often due to stress or a weakened immune system.
Q. What should I do if my child is exposed to chickenpox?
A. If your child is unvaccinated, consult a doctor about post-exposure vaccination, which may reduce symptom severity if given within three days of exposure.
Protecting yourself and your family from chickenpox is crucial, especially given its potential complications in adults.