Signs & Symptoms

Español: Signos y síntomas

Anyone who hasn’t had chickenpox or gotten the chickenpox vaccine can get the disease. Chickenpox illness usually lasts about 5 to7 days.

The classic symptom of chickenpox is a rash that turns into itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually turn into scabs. The rash may first show up on the face, chest, and back then spread to the rest of the body, including inside the mouth, eyelids, or genital area. It usually takes about one week for all the blisters to become scabs.

Other typical symptoms that may begin to appear 1-2 days before rash include:

• fever
• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• headache

Children usually miss 5 to 6 days of school or childcare due to chickenpox.

Vaccinated Persons

Some people who have been vaccinated against chickenpox can still get the disease. However, the symptoms are usually milder with fewer red spots or blisters and mild or no fever. Though uncommon, some vaccinated people who get chickenpox will develop illness as serious as chickenpox in unvaccinated persons.

People at Risk for Severe Chickenpox

Some people who get chickenpox may have more severe symptoms and may be at higher risk for complications. For more information, see complications.