Chickenpox rash

Typical chickenpox rash on back of a child, with close-up showing blisters and crusted sores

Chickenpox (varicella) is a contagious illness that causes an itchy rash and red spots or blisters (pox) all over the body. It takes about 1 or 2 days for a chickenpox red spot (macule) to go through all of its stages. This includes blistering, bursting, drying, and crusting over. New red spots appear every day for up to 5 to 7 days.

Current as of: October 31, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine