Tiny sores and small scars may develop if the child scratches the blisters and they become infected. When one child becomes ill with chickenpox, the other children in the family will usually get it, too. A child can infect others 1 to 2 days before the rash starts, and until after the last new blister appears. The illness ranges from a mild rash to hundreds of bumps and a fever as high as 105 degrees. If a fever lasts longer than 3 days, seek medical care.
Most children can handle chickenpox with simple treatment to reduce itching and fever.
Daily baths prior to bedtime are helpful. Baking soda or oatmeal may be added to the child's bath water to also relieve itching. Most children with chickenpox recover within 7 to 10 days. They are contagious until all sores have crusted over, which is usually 5 days after the rash begins. Keep the child out of school for at least one week.