A closer look at chickenpox in babies

Chickenpox — everyone has heard of it. Even if you did not have it as a child, you are sure to have known at least one person who has been through the experience of those itchy spots. In children, it is usually a mild illness with no serious consequences. But chickenpox in babies is not always easy to spot straight away — and you will need a few tips to stop them scratching too much.

Chickenpox in babies: should you be worried?

This childhood illness is one of the most contagious there is. It is characterised by a fever and numerous red, itchy spots caused by a virus from the herpes family. It is transmitted via the respiratory tract and through skin contact — either by direct contact with an infected person,

or through the air by inhaling saliva droplets from someone who has chickenpox. As you can imagine, it is very easy to catch. Even more so because the person who is infected is already contagious one to two days before the spots appear! And this contagiousness continues until all the spots have dried out and healed.

Nevertheless, in children, apart from the nuisance of the itching and any marks that may remain, there are usually no other consequences. However, there are serious cases that can occur in babies under one month old — so if your baby is very young, you should seek urgent medical attention.

Chickenpox in babies: how do you recognise it?

Before the spots appear, your child will already have the virus in their system for a period that can range from 10 days to 3 weeks. The first warning sign will be a fever.

Along with it will come other signs such as tiredness, headaches, and aching muscles. In a very young baby, however, these symptoms can be difficult to identify. Once the telltale spots appear, though, there will be no room for doubt.

They can cover the whole body and even the mucous membranes — some children will even have them inside their mouth and nose. Furthermore, this viral illness cannot be treated with specific medication.

Except in the rare cases of superinfection of the blisters or pneumonia, where hospitalisation may be necessary. The main thing to do is to bring the fever down and put in place everything needed to soothe the itching.

Tips to stop the spots being scratched

To prevent the spread of the virus and any risk of superinfection, trim your baby's nails. And if possible, put mittens on their hands — or socks, which work just as well.

But above all, wash their little hands regularly with Surgras Soap to avoid irritating their skin.

Do not hesitate to carry them in a Carrying Sling, as they will need even more cuddles at times like these. Finally, try to keep their attention occupied so they forget about the itching — play with them using their Discovery Toys, particularly building ones.