Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated: January 9, 2017, 10:31 AM
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We all know that chickenpox is a highly contagious disease and this is the reason why it is wise to stay indoors till the blisters dry and fall off. However, in the meantime, here are a few things you should not do to prevent it to spread to people around, says Dr Pradip Shah, Consultant Physician, Fortis Hospital.
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Eating cold/refrigerated foods: Yes, as chickenpox causes a lot of heat in the body, people feel that eating cold or refrigerated foods can provide some relief. However, by doing so, you might be at a risk of pneumonia, if the infection has spread to the lungs. So better avoid these foods.
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Not drinking enough water: As chickenpox causes lack of appetite and fever, you might not feel like drinking water. But it is important to stay hydrated and increase your fluid intake to fight off the infection and also to lower the heat and temperature of the body.
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Not following proper hygiene: With pustules (boils filled with fluid) all over the body, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation. This is because, if hygiene is not maintained, there is a high risk of bacterial infection when the fluid leaks out from the boils.
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Sharing clothes (of/with an uninfected person): As the virus can spread through close contact or the fluid present in the boils, sharing towels, shawls or clothes of/with an uninfected person can put the person at risk of suffering from chickenpox as it is highly contagious.
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Self-medication: Never self-medicate if you suffer from chickenpox as taking aspirin for a fever, which is a common symptom of chicken pox can lead to side effects. Also, make sure you take the medicines as advised by your doctor without fail and go for follow-up visits.
