Journal of Infectious Diseases & Preventive Medicine
Open Access

Traditional and Modern Home Remedies for Chickenpox and their Management

Zoe Jordan^{* *}Correspondence: Zoe Jordan, Department of Public Health, King Bristol University, London, UK, Email:

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Description

Chickenpox, caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), is a highly contagious disease characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash. Although generally mild, it can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, lead to serious complications. Managing chickenpox involves symptom relief, preventing secondary infections, and taking steps to avoid spreading the virus. Here, we will discuss effective home remedies and preventive medicines for chickenpox.

Home remedies for chickenpox

Home remedies can play a significant role in alleviating the discomfort associated with chickenpox.

Oatmeal baths: Add finely ground oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath. Oatmeal baths can soothe itching and calm inflamed skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal provide relief from the irritation and dryness associated with chickenpox blisters.

Baking soda baths: Dissolve a cup of baking soda in a lukewarm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes. Baking soda helps to relieve itching and irritation. It also has antiseptic properties that can help prevent secondary infections.

Calamine lotion: Apply calamine lotion directly to the skinusing a cotton ball. Calamine lotion provides a cooling effectand helps reduce itching. It also forms a protective barrier overthe blisters, which can help prevent scratching and infection.

Honey: Apply raw honey directly to chickenpox sores and leaveit on for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. Honey has naturalantibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can helpsoothe the skin and prevent secondary infections.

Herbal remedies: Soak chamomile tea bags in water, cool themin the refrigerator, and then apply them to the affected areas.Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial propertiesthat help soothe itchy skin and reduce inflammation.

Hydration: Encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and clear broths. Staying hydrated helps the body fight the virus and supports the healing process.

Preventive measures and medicines

Preventing chickenpox involves vaccination and, in some cases, antiviral medications. These measures are especially important for individuals at high risk of complications.

Varicella vaccine: The varicella vaccine is typically given in twodoses, the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. Thevaccine is highly effective in preventing chickenpox. It reducesthe incidence of the disease and, if breakthrough infectionsoccur, they are usually much milder.

Antiviral medications: These medications are most effectivewhen started within 24 hours of the onset of the rash. They areparticularly recommended for high-risk individuals, includingthose with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, andnewborns.

Immunoglobulin treatment: Varicella-Zoster Immuno Globulin(VZIG) is given to high-risk individuals who have been exposedto the virus but have not yet developed symptoms. VZIG canprevent or reduce the severity of chickenpox in those who aremost vulnerable to severe disease.

General preventive practices: Keep the infected person isolatedfrom others, especially those who are not immune or are at highrisk of severe disease. This helps prevent the spread of the virusto others. Encourage regular handwashing and maintain cleanenvironments. Good hygiene practices reduce the risk ofspreading the virus and secondary bacterial infections.

Avoid scratching: Keep fingernails trimmed short and considerusing gloves or mittens on young children at night. Reducingscratching helps prevent secondary infections and scarring.

Conclusion

Chickenpox, while typically a mild illness, can cause significant discomfort and potential complications. Home remedies, such as oatmeal baths, calamine lotion, and herbal treatments, can effectively relieve symptoms and support healing. Preventive measures, including vaccination and antiviral medications, are crucial for reducing the incidence and severity of the disease, especially in high-risk populations.