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

Audience: pediatric

Chickenpox, also called varicella, is a common childhood illness that causes a red, itchy rash with small blisters. It often comes with fever and tiredness. Most children recover well without serious problems. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help check the symptoms and decide if more care is needed. To get the most from the video visit, prepare by gathering important information about your child's symptoms and environment. During the visit, the provider may ask to see the rash and discuss your child's health history. This guide helps families understand how to prepare for a telemedicine visit about chickenpox, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful way to get advice but is not a replacement for in-person medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 4 days or not responding to fever medicines — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Signs of skin infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around blisters — seek medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of rash appearance and symptom discussion.
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if urgent in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require touch or detailed skin testing.
• Administering vaccines or treatments that require in-person visits.
• Managing severe complications like breathing problems or neurological symptoms.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It usually starts with fever, tiredness, and a rash that turns into itchy blisters. The rash often appears first on the face, chest, and back before spreading. Chickenpox spreads easily from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or touching the blisters.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit place where you can show the rash clearly on your child's skin. Have a list of symptoms ready, including when they started and any changes. Write down any questions you want to ask the healthcare provider. Keep your child's medical history and any medications handy.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as fever, rash, or itching. They may ask to see the rash through the camera. They will check if your child has any other health conditions or if they have been around others who are sick. Based on this, they will guide you on care steps or if your child needs to see a doctor in person.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Chickenpox is usually mild, but sometimes it can cause serious problems. Seek emergency care if your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, severe headache, confusion, or if the rash looks infected (increased redness, swelling, or pus). Also, seek care if your child has a weakened immune system.

Managing Chickenpox at Home

Most children recover at home with rest, fluids, and medicines to reduce fever and itching. Keep your child comfortable and prevent scratching to avoid skin infections. Avoid contact with others who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine until the blisters have crusted over.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the video call.
• Have your child's rash visible to the camera for inspection.
• Prepare a list of symptoms with start dates and changes.
• Write down any questions or concerns.
• Have your child's medical history and current medications ready.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a good internet connection.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on symptom management.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening signs.
• Keep your child comfortable and hydrated.
• Avoid contact with others until blisters have crusted.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if red flags appear.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new symptoms develop or existing symptoms worsen.

FAQs

Is chickenpox contagious during a video visit?

No, chickenpox cannot be spread through a video visit. It spreads through direct contact with the rash or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Can my child get medicine through telemedicine?

The healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter medicines to reduce fever and itching during the video visit. Prescription medicines usually require an in-person visit or pharmacy consultation.

How long does chickenpox usually last?

Chickenpox symptoms typically last about 5 to 10 days. The rash goes through stages from red spots to blisters to crusted scabs.

When should I call for an in-person visit?

If your child has difficulty breathing, very high or persistent fever, signs of skin infection, or severe headache or confusion, seek in-person medical care immediately.

Can chickenpox be prevented?

Yes, chickenpox can often be prevented with a vaccine. Talk to your healthcare provider about vaccination options for your child.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.