Shingles in Children: Care Instructions
Overview
Shingles (herpes zoster) causes pain and a blistered rash. The rash can appear anywhere on the body but will
be on only one side of the body, the left or right. It will be in a band, a strip, or a small area. The pain
can be very severe. Shingles can also cause tingling or itching in the area of the rash. The blisters scab
over after a few days and heal in 2 to 4 weeks. Medicines can help your child feel better and may help prevent
more serious problems caused by shingles.
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. When your child has chickenpox, the virus gets
into the nerve roots and stays there (becomes dormant) long after your child gets over the chickenpox. If the
virus becomes active again, it can cause shingles.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your
child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
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Be safe with medicines. Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you
think your child is having a problem with a medicine. Antiviral medicine helps your child get better faster.
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Do not let your child scratch or pick at the blisters.
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Keep the blisters moist until they heal over. One way to do this is to cover them with a thin layer of
petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
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Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain. Read and follow all
instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye
syndrome, a serious illness.
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Do not give a child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain
medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
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Keep your child away from close contact with people until the blisters have healed. It is very important
for your child to avoid contact with anyone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. Young
babies and anyone who is pregnant or has a hard time fighting infection (such as someone with HIV, diabetes,
or cancer) are especially at risk.
When should you call for help?
Call your
doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
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Your child has symptoms of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
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Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: June 12, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.