Varicella (Chickenpox), complicated

B01.1† + (G02.0*/G05.1*+J17.1*)/B01.8

GENERAL MEASURES

Cool, wet compresses or tepid water baths.

Body hygiene to prevent secondary infection.

Advise against scratching.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Antiviral therapy is required in complicated cases, e.g.:

  • chickenpox pneumonia,
  • pregnancy,
  • neurological involvement, and
  • chickenpox in immunocompromised patients

  • Aciclovir, IV, 10 mg/kg administrerd over one hour 8 hourly for 7 days.

The course can be completed with:

  • Antiviral, (active against varicella zoster), e.g:
    • Aciclovir, oral, 800 mg five times daily.

LoE1 [34]

Treat secondary bacterial infection if suspected.

For patients who are severely immunologically compromised and are not immune: (Z29.1)

  • Varicella-zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG), IM, 125 units/10 kg.
    • Maximum dose: 625 units.
    • Administer within 96 hours after significant exposure.