SICKNESS IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN: CHICKENPOX
This is a virus disease. Chickenpox and measles are the most highly contagious and therefore the most common diseases of childhood.
First, pimples break out, usually beginning on the chest. Then the pimples become blisters that dry into scabs. The blisters break out in series, one after another. The main danger lies in the fact that the blisters itch, and they may become infected by scratching. To ease the child’s itching, place him in a cold bath to which two or three handfuls of starch have been added. Because you will be unable to prevent a certain amount of scratching, keep your child’s hands clean by washing them several times a day, and keep his nails cut short.
Call the doctor if the child appears really sick or has a fever. This is mainly a precaution to rule out smallpox or other serious diseases. Most cases of chickenpox are mild and require no special treatment except bed rest and plenty of fluids during the feverish stage. Once the scabs arc gone, it is not necessary to isolate the child.
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