Dealing with Chicken Pox: Caring for Both Your Sick Child and Newborn

It's a daunting situation when one of your children is sick with chicken pox and you have a newborn who is just a few weeks old. It's essential to take immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of both your sick child and your newborn baby. Here's a guide on what you should do:

How to Prevent Scratching

Chicken pox can be extremely itchy, and it's crucial to prevent your child from scratching the rash. By putting mittens or soft socks on their hands, you can protect their delicate skin from potential damage. This is especially important considering the vulnerability of newborns who can easily be scratched, which can lead to infections.

It's important to note that even a small scratch on an infant's skin can result in long-term effects, such as a scar, as was the case with the writer's daughter. After catching a thumbnail during her childhood, the writer says, her face is left with a 'minuscule scar' at the age of 36.

Seek Professional Medical Advice

The symptoms of chicken pox can sometimes be unclear, and it's best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. In the United States, many healthcare services are free or accessible through insurance. However, in the UK and other countries, doctors are often contacted immediately after the diagnosis of such conditions. Even if you suspect chicken pox, it's better to seek professional advice to ensure proper care.

Isolating the Sick Child

To prevent the spread of chicken pox to your newborn, you need to isolate your sick child from them. Frequent hand washing and maintaining hygiene are crucial. Additionally, consulting your doctor for advice on how to manage the situation is highly recommended.

Involving the Pediatrician

By involving your child's pediatrician, you can get expert advice tailored to your specific situation. If you're breastfeeding, your baby will receive natural immunity, which can be beneficial. However, continue to wash your hands thoroughly after each interaction with your sick child to minimize the risk.

Vaccination and Future Prevention

Considering both your children will go through uncomfortable periods and be at risk of developing shingles later in life, it's essential to get them vaccinated on schedule. Chicken pox, though considered a 'childhood' disease, can be fatal to older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Ensuring vaccinations is critical for the long-term health of your family.

For new and expectant parents, this article serves as an important reminder about the importance of proper hygiene, timely medical consultation, and vaccination schedules to protect against infectious diseases.