Home » Travel Clinic » Chickenpox
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a common infection that usually clears on its own, but it can be uncomfortable and worrying, especially for parents and carers. At Periville Pharmacy, we’re here to support you with trusted advice, chickenpox treatment guidance, and information about the chickenpox vaccine when it’s needed.
Based in Grimsby, with two local branches supporting areas including Laceby, Keelby, Great Coates, and Healing, our expert pharmacy team is here to help you feel informed and reassured.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox Symptoms to Look Out For
- A high temperature
- Aches and pains
- Feeling unwell
- Loss of appetite
The spots can appear in clusters, turn into fluid-filled blisters, and eventually scab over. New spots may appear while others are healing.
What to Expect
at Your Appointment
- Private consultation with a pharmacist
- Assessment of your symptoms
- Clear recovery plan and guidance
How Chickenpox Spreads
- Chickenpox spreads very easily from 2 days before the rash appears until all spots have formed scabs. You can catch it by:
- Being in the same room as someone with chickenpox.
- Touching items with fluid from the blisters.
- Contact with someone who has shingles (if you’ve never had chickenpox before).
- Children and adults with chickenpox should stay off school, nursery, or work until all spots have scabbed over, usually around 5 days.
Chickenpox Treatment & Self-Care
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Use paracetamol for pain or fever.
- Apply cooling creams or gels.
- Speak to a pharmacist about antihistamines for itching.
- Keep fingernails short to reduce scratching and scarring.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Avoid ibuprofen unless prescribed, and never give aspirin to children under 16.
Who Should Consider Chickenpox Immunisation?
- A child 9 months or older who has never had chickenpox.
- An adult who has never had chickenpox.
- Living with or caring for someone with a weakened immune system.
- A healthcare or childcare worker in close-contact roles.
- The chickenpox vaccine is given as an injection into the arm in 2 doses, 4-8 weeks apart. It gives around 98% protection in children and 75% in adults, with no booster needed. If vaccinated individuals do get chickenpox, symptoms are usually milder. Our pharmacists can check your vaccination status and advise on next steps.
The chickenpox vaccine is given as an injection into the arm in 2 doses, 4–8 weeks apart. It gives around 98% protection in children and 75% in adults, with no booster needed. If vaccinated individuals do get chickenpox, symptoms are usually milder. Our pharmacists can check your vaccination status and advise on next steps.
Why Choose Periville Pharmacy?
- Friendly, experienced pharmacists you can speak to easily.
- Clear advice on chickenpox treatment and prevention.
- Support with vaccine eligibility and next steps.
- Convenient access across Grimsby.
- Care that feels personal, not rushed.
Get Trusted Chickenpox Advice from Our Pharmacy Team
FAQs
News and Insights

Shingles vs. Chickenpox: What’s the Difference?
Many people think shingles and chickenpox are entirely different illnesses, but both are caused by the same virus — the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox usually affects children, while shingles can appear years later when the virus reactivates in adulthood. Understanding the differences between shingles vs chickenpox can help you spot symptoms

Infected Insect Bites in Children: What Parents Should Know
Insect bites are common in children, especially during warmer months. While most bites heal naturally within a few days, some can become infected and require medical attention. In this blog, we will learn about how to recognise, treat, and prevent infected insect bites in children. Understanding these important steps will

Common Causes of Earache in Children and Adults
Earache can be surprisingly disruptive, whether it’s a child crying through the night or an adult struggling with sharp, persistent ear pain. While some cases are minor and clear up on their own, ongoing or severe ear pain should never be ignored. By understanding the most common causes, you can recognise when it’s time to seek