Oatmeal baths in lukewarm water provide a crusty, comforting coating on the skin. An oral antihistamine can help to ease the itching, as can topical lotions. Trim the fingernails short to reduce secondary infections and scarring.Safe antiviral medicines have been developed. To work well, they usually must be started within the first 24 hours of the rash.Until all chickenpox sores have crusted over or dried out, avoid playing with other children, going back to school, or returning to work.
