What If Varicella Cannot Be Prevented?
If you are given VZIG (the drug used to prevent varicella-zoster after exposure to the virus) or if it is too late in your pregnancy for this preventive measure, you should be aware of the signs and symptoms of varicella. If you develop a chickenpox rash or any other suspect symptoms, you should let your doctor know immediately. (For more information, go to Screening for Varicella-Zoster in Pregnancy.) If your symptoms are moderate to severe, but you are otherwise healthy, your doctor may prescribe the antiviral drugs acyclovir (Zovirax) or valacyclovir (Valtrex), which you take orally. Be especially on the lookout for early signs of more serious complications of varicella, including: • headache, confusion, and sleepiness (potential early signs of encephalitis); or • cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain (early signs of pneumonia). If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately. If you develop complications of varicella, you will probably be hospitalized and put on
