Chickenpox stages follow a prodromal stage of fever and malaise, the appearance of small spots which then become blisters, and which then scab.12

Although usually mild, varicella can cause complications, including infections of the skin, lungs (with pneumonia) and brain (encephalitis). It may also cause miscarriages, stillbirths or congenital varicella syndrome with the possibility of birth defects of the skin, limbs, eyes and the CNS, and a risk of infant death in the first few weeks after birth.38,39,40

Patients with chickenpox should avoid public or confined areas where other people are (such as school or the workplace). They especially should not go near newborn babies, pregnant women or people with a weakened immune system as the virus can be more dangerous for these people. This may also mean alerting the practice receptionist if wanting an appointment with the GP.12

Pregnant women may also be offered antiviral medication at any stage in their pregnancy if they have been exposed to chickenpox (or shingles).41