Health Tips for August 20

Health Tip: Using an Antiviral for Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a viral infection that causes itchy, fluid-filled skin blisters. Usually affecting children, the infection typically runs its course and clears up without treatment.

Adults and teens, however, may be at risk of more severe symptoms and may benefit from an antiviral medication, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. An antiviral is most beneficial if begun during the first 24 hours of the skin rash.

The agency mentions these additional facts about use of an antiviral medication in a person with chickenpox:

• Healthy children who don't have severe symptoms probably don't need an antiviral medication.
• Adolescents who take regular aspirin may need an antiviral.
• People with skin or lung conditions, or those who have recently taken a steroidal medication, may benefit from an antiviral.
• People who have been exposed to chickenpox -- but haven't contracted the infection -- may benefit from an antiviral.

Health Tip: Chickenpox Can Be Dangerous During Pregnancy

Chickenpox is a viral disease that isn't serious for most people. But it can be dangerous to a pregnant woman, who is at risk for more complications than if she weren't pregnant, and her fetus, who may be at greater risk of birth defects.

The Nemours Foundation has more information about chicken pox and pregnancy:

• If you're pregnant, it's important to avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox.
• An infant is at increased risk of complications if the mother gets chickenpox just before or after delivering the baby.
• Having had chickenpox prior to pregnancy offers some protection to the baby, since the mother's immunity is passed to the infant via the placenta, and later, breast milk.