chickenpox (varicella)
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
exclude until all blisters have crusted over — usually at least 5 days after the rash first appears
symptoms
- •itchy red rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters
- •fever
- •tiredness
- •loss of appetite
- •headache
- •new spots appearing over several days
when can your child return to childcare?
the child can return once ALL blisters have dried and crusted over. this typically takes 5–7 days from when the rash first appeared. no new blisters should be appearing.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
contacts who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine should check with their GP. immunocompromised contacts should seek medical advice urgently.
treatment notes for parents
calamine lotion and cool baths can ease itching. paracetamol for fever (do NOT give aspirin or ibuprofen). keep fingernails short to prevent scratching. chickenpox is highly contagious — it spreads through the air and by touching the blisters.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.