Read up on Chickenpox treatment options at Consumer Reports Health.

Chickenpox

Key points about treatments

Most children don't need any treatment for chickenpox. But chickenpox can be more serious for adults, babies, people with a weak immune system, and pregnant women. People in these groups may need treatment.

A vaccine can help to prevent chickenpox in people who haven't had it before.
A drug called acyclovir (brand name Zovirax) can help to prevent chickenpox in people with

HIV
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It's the virus that causes AIDS. It makes you sick by damaging cells called CD4 cells. Your body needs these cells to fight infections. You can get HIV by sharing needles for injecting drugs ,or by having sex without a condom with someone who already has the virus.

HIV. It may also help children with cancer who get chickenpox.
A shot containing

antibodies
Antibodies are an important part of your immune system. They are proteins made by white blood cells (another part of your immune system). They help destroy bacteria and other agents that cause infections.

antibodies that fight the chickenpox

viruses
Viruses are microbes (tiny organisms) that need the cells of humans or other animals to exist. They use the machinery of cells to reproduce. Then they spread to other cells in the body.

virus may help to prevent chickenpox. It's called varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG). But there's not enough research to say for sure whether it works.

This information was last updated on Aug 03, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
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