Paediatrics, by video or in person
Chickenpox
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Chickenpox
- A fever, aches and loss of appetite
- Spots, red or darker than the skin, often starting on the chest, back or face and spreading
- Spots that fill with fluid to become blisters, then crust into scabs
- Intense itching
- Spots inside the mouth or around the genitals
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Chickenpox is a common and very contagious viral illness, mostly of children. It starts with a fever, aches and feeling unwell, then itchy spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters and then crust into scabs, with new spots appearing for a few days. On brown and black skin the spots may look darker rather than red. Most children recover at home in a week or two. It is more serious for newborn babies, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system, who should get a doctor's advice the same day if they catch it or have been near someone with it. A child can spread chickenpox from two days before the spots appear until every spot has crusted over.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A fever, aches and loss of appetite
- Spots, red or darker than the skin, often starting on the chest, back or face and spreading
- Spots that fill with fluid to become blisters, then crust into scabs
- Intense itching
- Spots inside the mouth or around the genitals
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital emergency department now if a child with chickenpox has difficulty breathing, is very drowsy or confused, has a fit, has a stiff neck or a severe headache, or cannot walk steadily; or if the skin around the spots becomes hot, red, swollen and very painful, which can mean a serious skin infection. Get a doctor's advice the same day for a newborn baby who has chickenpox or has been near it, a child with a weakened immune system, a child with signs of dehydration such as few wet nappies, or a pregnant woman who has been near someone with chickenpox, because medicine to prevent complications needs to start within a day of the spots appearing. A paediatrician by video can assess the rash and tell you if your child needs to be seen.
Treatment options
- Plenty of fluids, with cold drinks for a sore mouth
- Paracetamol for fever and pain, at the dose on the pack or from your doctor
- No ibuprofen unless a doctor advises it, because in chickenpox it can lead to serious skin infections, and never aspirin for a child
- Cooling creams or gels, and an antihistamine for itching on a pharmacist's or doctor's advice
- Short nails, and socks on the hands at night, to stop scratching
- Antiviral medicine, started early by a doctor, for newborns, pregnant women and people with weak immunity
- Keeping the child at home until every spot has crusted over
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
When can my child go back to school?
When every spot has crusted over, usually about five days after the spots first appeared. Keep your child away from newborn babies, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system until then.
Why should my child not have ibuprofen?
In chickenpox, ibuprofen has been linked to serious skin infections, so the NHS advises against it unless a doctor says otherwise. Paracetamol is the usual choice for fever and pain.
Can a paediatrician assess chickenpox by video?
Usually, yes. The rash is easy to recognise on camera, and a paediatrician can advise on care at home, look for signs of infection, and tell you if your child needs to be examined.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified paediatrics specialist near you.
Paediatrics in Lagos →Paediatrics in Abuja →Paediatrics in Port Harcourt →Paediatrics in Jos →Paediatrics in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Chickenpox. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 29 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.