Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is common in children and typically presents as an itchy, red rash with small blisters.
Symptoms typically appear 10—21 days after exposure to the virus and may include:
Chickenpox spreads easily through:
People are most contagious 1–2 days before the rash appears.
People are no longer contagious when blisters have formed crusts or scabs.
Anyone who hasn’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated can become infected, though it is most common in children. While the illness is usually mild in children, adults often experience more severe symptoms.
People at risk of serious complications from infection are:
People who have already had chickenpox rarely get it again, although the virus can remain dormant in the body and may reactivate later in life, causing shingles.
Receiving the varicella vaccine is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox.
The NSW Immunisation Schedule recommends that children receive the measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (MMRV) combination vaccine at 18 months of age.
For more detailed guidance on varicella vaccination in Australia, see the Australian Immunisation Handbook .
Other ways to reduce the risk of infection include:
Chickenpox is typically diagnosed by a general practitioner (GP) based on symptoms and the appearance of the characteristic rash. In some cases, the diagnosis may be confirmed by testing samples from the rash or through blood tests.
Most cases of chickenpox are mild and clear up on their own within a couple of weeks.
People with chickenpox are advised to:
Antihistamines can help relieve itching, and paracetamol can be used to reduce fever and discomfort.
Antiviral medication is not usually needed but may be recommended for people at higher risk of complications.
The Multicultural Health Communication Service NSW (MHCS) provides translations for chickenpox and shingles in 13 languages other than English.
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