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What is chickenpox?

Answered by Dr Claire Winstanley
14th March 2016

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Chicken pox is a mild, common illness that most children will experience growing up. The most recognisable sign of chickenpox is a visible rash of red, itchy spots that blister and fill with fluid. Children usually catch the disease in winter and spring, especially between the months of March and May.

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Dawn Kelly

Dawn is a qualified paediatric nurse, health visitor and lecturer with over 20 years’ experience. She’s written widely about child health and development and has a wealth of knowledge about childhood illnesses and advising parents on issues such as weaning and sleep. Her three daughters also put her knowledge to the test!
Dr Ellie Cannon

As well as being a celebrity doctor, Dr Ellie is a GP in a family-health practice and a mum to two young children. She has recently written a popular book on parenting, writes a weekly health column in a national newspaper and regularly appears on television to advise on health topics.
Dr Claire Winstanley

Dr Claire Winstanley has been a qualified GP for nearly twenty years, graduating in medicine from Newcastle in 1993 and has worked as a GP in surgeries in Buckinghamshire and London. Dr Claire Winstanley has a particular interest in children’s health, having recently authored a book which is a practical guide for new parents. She currently lives in Bristol and has three children.

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