How to prepare for a video visit about Chickenpox (Varicella) - Triage

Audience: adult

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a common viral infection that causes an itchy rash and flu-like symptoms. It often affects children but can occur in adults too. Preparing for a video visit about chickenpox can help you get the most from your telemedicine appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, help determine if you likely have chickenpox, and advise on care and when to seek in-person treatment. Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation, symptom advice, and guidance on managing chickenpox safely at home. However, it cannot replace physical exams or urgent care if complications arise. Being ready with information about your symptoms, recent exposures, and any medical conditions will help the provider give better advice. If you notice serious signs like difficulty breathing, high fever, or severe rash, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps you prepare for your video visit and understand when to get urgent help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 4 days or above 39°C (102°F) — contact healthcare urgently.
• Severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures — go to an emergency department right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage for chickenpox.
• Providing advice on managing symptoms like itching and fever.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or emergency treatment.
• Answering questions about chickenpox transmission and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Administering intravenous medications or emergency interventions.
• Diagnosing complications that require lab tests or imaging.
• Providing urgent care for severe or worsening symptoms.

What is Chickenpox (Varicella)?

Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It usually starts with fever, tiredness, and a red, itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. These blisters eventually scab over and heal. Chickenpox spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching the rash. Most people recover fully without problems, but adults and people with weakened immune systems may have more severe illness.

How Telemedicine Can Help with Chickenpox

A video visit allows you to show your rash and describe your symptoms to a healthcare provider without leaving home. The provider can help confirm if your symptoms fit chickenpox and give advice on how to manage itching, fever, and discomfort. They can also tell you when to seek in-person care if complications develop. Telemedicine is convenient and reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others in waiting rooms.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do for Chickenpox

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams like checking your lungs or taking blood tests. It cannot provide urgent treatments such as intravenous medicines or hospital care if you have severe complications. If your symptoms worsen or you develop danger signs, you will need to visit a healthcare facility in person.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, gather information to share with your provider:

Having this information ready helps your provider give the best advice.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the care instructions given by your provider, which may include:

If your provider advises, schedule a follow-up visit or seek in-person care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection for your video visit.
• Have a device with a camera ready to show your rash clearly.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how they have changed.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Know your medical history and current medications.
• Ensure you have someone to assist you if you feel unwell during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider’s advice on symptom management and medication use.
• Rest and drink plenty of fluids to support recovery.
• Avoid contact with people who are vulnerable to chickenpox, such as pregnant women and infants.
• Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms and seek care if red flags appear.
• Schedule follow-up care if recommended by your provider.

FAQs

Can I catch chickenpox more than once?

Most people get chickenpox only once because the body builds immunity after infection. However, in rare cases, it can occur again, especially if the immune system is weakened.

Is chickenpox contagious before the rash appears?

Yes, chickenpox can be contagious 1 to 2 days before the rash appears and remains contagious until all blisters have crusted over.

How can I relieve the itching caused by chickenpox?

To relieve itching, you can use cool baths with baking soda or oatmeal, apply calamine lotion, and keep your nails trimmed to avoid skin damage from scratching.

Should I take antiviral medicine for chickenpox?

Antiviral medicines may be recommended for adults or people at higher risk of complications. Your healthcare provider can advise if this is appropriate during your telemedicine visit.

When is it safe to return to work or public places?

You are usually no longer contagious when all chickenpox blisters have crusted over, which often takes about 5 to 7 days after the rash starts. Follow your provider’s advice on when to resume normal activities.

Sources

1. Chickenpox — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Chickenpox (Varicella) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Varicella (Chickenpox) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Chickenpox (Varicella) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your health or experience severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.