Most children have the rash but no symptoms. For pain, give acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed. Avoid giving aspirin for zoster because of the possible link of aspirin and viral infections with Reye's syndrome. Discourage scratching or picking the rash. The rash does not need any cream.
Transmission occurs by touching the zoster rash.
Although they are far less contagious than children with chickenpox, children with zoster should stay home from school for 7 days unless they can keep the rash covered until it crusts over. The rash lasts more than 14 days. You have other questions or concerns. Published by McKessonHBOC Clinical Reference Systems. All rights reserved.