Once infected, chickenpox may take up to 10 to 21 days to develop. Diagnosis usually involves a medical examination. Keep fingernails short to decrease the likelihood of scratching. Sometimes a secondary case of chickenpox does occur. Blood tests can confirm immunity to chickenpox in people who are unsure if they have had the disease.
Complications can occur from chickenpox.
Those most susceptible to severe cases of chickenpox are infants, adults, pregnant women, and people with impaired immune systems. Children with varicella should not be given aspirin because administration of aspirin to children with varicella increases the risk of Reye's syndrome. Contact Information Copyright 2001 Methodist Health Care System, Houston, Tx. All Rights Reserved. Please read our disclaimer and privacy policy .