What happens after a telemedicine visit for Chickenpox (Varicella) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Chickenpox (Varicella) is a common childhood illness that causes an itchy rash and fever. After a telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will help you understand how to care for your child at home. Most children recover without problems, but it is important to watch for signs that need urgent care. During the visit, your provider may review symptoms, check the rash through video, and give advice on managing fever and itching. They will also explain when to seek in-person care if the illness worsens or complications appear. Follow-up steps often include keeping your child comfortable, preventing scratching, and maintaining good hygiene to avoid infection. This guide helps families know what to expect after a telemedicine visit and how to support a child with chickenpox safely at home.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or persistent chest pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 4 days or not responding to fever reducers — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Rash appears infected with redness, swelling, or pus — arrange for in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of chickenpox symptoms and rash via video.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.
• Answering common questions about chickenpox and prevention.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require touch or detailed skin assessment.
• Providing emergency treatment for severe complications.
• Administering laboratory tests or imaging studies.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person evaluation.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit for chickenpox, your healthcare provider will usually give you advice on how to care for your child at home. This includes managing fever, reducing itching, and watching for any signs of complications. You may be asked to monitor your child's symptoms daily and keep track of any changes. The provider might also recommend ways to keep your child comfortable and prevent the rash from getting infected.

Managing Chickenpox Symptoms at Home

Common treatments include:

Avoid aspirin and certain medications unless directed by your healthcare provider, as they may cause complications.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

While most chickenpox cases improve with home care, some signs require urgent attention:

If you notice these signs, seek emergency care promptly.

Preventing the Spread of Chickenpox

Chickenpox spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with the rash. To protect others:

Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox, so discuss immunization options with your healthcare provider.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may suggest a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 7–10 days. Keep a symptom diary to share during follow-up. If your child has underlying health conditions or weakened immunity, closer monitoring may be needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet space for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and vaccination records ready.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Have a device with a camera to show the rash clearly to the provider.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Make sure your child is nearby and comfortable during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on fever and itch management.
• Keep your child hydrated and rested.
• Monitor symptoms daily and watch for red flags.
• Maintain good hygiene and prevent scratching the rash.
• Keep your child isolated from others until contagious period ends.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.

FAQs

How long does chickenpox usually last in children?

Chickenpox typically lasts about 5 to 10 days. The rash goes through several stages—starting as red spots, then blisters, and finally crusting over. Most children recover fully without complications.

Can my child go to school or daycare with chickenpox?

No, children with chickenpox should stay home until all the blisters have crusted over, which usually takes about 5 to 7 days after the rash starts. This helps prevent spreading the infection to others.

Is there a vaccine for chickenpox?

Yes, there is a vaccine that helps prevent chickenpox. It is usually given in childhood and can reduce the severity of illness if your child does get infected. Talk to your healthcare provider about vaccination options.

What should I do if my child scratches the chickenpox rash?

Try to keep your child's nails trimmed short to reduce skin damage. You can also use soothing lotions or antihistamines to reduce itching. If the rash looks infected (red, swollen, or oozing), contact your healthcare provider.

Are antibiotics needed for chickenpox?

Antibiotics are not used to treat chickenpox itself because it is caused by a virus. However, if the rash becomes infected with bacteria, your provider may prescribe antibiotics.

Sources

1. Chickenpox (Varicella) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Chickenpox — 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 and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care or diagnosis. If your child's condition worsens or you have concerns, please seek prompt medical attention.