Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection, and a baby can easily catch it. Therefore it is important to have all the information about it beforehand. Dr. Promilla Butani, a renowned general pediatrician in Delhi, explains the various factors related to chickenpox in babies, like causes, symptoms, treatment and how to prevent chickenpox in babies.
Causes of Chickenpox in Babies
Chickenpox is caused by a virus known as varicella-zoster. This virus is highly contagious, infecting anyone who comes close to the person suffering from it. It can spread through saliva, mucus, and sneeze or cough droplets of the infected person in the air. A baby can easily get infected in the vicinity of the infected person.
Treatment of Chickenpox in Babies
Generally, chickenpox in babies does not require any medical treatment. The immunity power of the baby fights off the infection within 5-10 days. The pediatrician may suggest medicines to overcome certain symptoms like loss of appetite, cold and abdominal pain.
Home Management Tips for Chickenpox
Fluid diet: Try to give the baby as much fluid as possible. Breastfeeding can help in infants, and for babies older than 2 years, one can feed soup, lentil soup, broth, etc. This will strengthen the baby's immunity for faster recovery.
Trim nails: Trimming the baby's nails will help prevent the baby from scratching the blisters and scarring.
Antihistamines Lotion: These lotions, like calamine, can help reduce itching and irritation on the skin.
Prevention from Chickenpox
Besides keeping the baby away from the infected person and the surroundings clean, the only way to protect the baby from chickenpox is vaccination, explains Dr. Promilla Butani, senior pediatrician in South Delhi.
Chickenpox Vaccines for Babies
Chickenpox vaccination consists of two shots - A vaccine & booster shot. Here is how the baby receives the vaccines.
1st shot - The baby receives 1st shot between the age of 12 to 15 months.
2nd shot - This is also known as a booster shot. It is given between 4.5 to 5 years of age. This shot ensures lifetime immunity against chickenpox.
It is very important to get the baby vaccinated against chickenpox as it is the only prevention of the infection in the future. Dr. Promilla Butani, the best general pediatrician in Delhi, advises getting the baby vaccinated as soon as they reach 12 months of age to ensure maximum safety.
More Detail Visit: Chickenpox in Babies - Insights By Experienced and Senior Pediatrician